Welcome to the New Zealand Online Pokies Guide. New Zealand has relatively loose online gaming laws, and therefore you will find that there are many online casinos, sports betting sites, poker and bingo that accept New Zealanders.
Of course there’s more to gaming than just the pokies, but to be honest, pokies is by and far the most popular form of playing in New Zealand.
The pokies have a long standing history in New Zealand. Commonly found in community services clubs, some not for profit organisations, such as the Catholic church, and casinos. Pokies raises significant revenue for the country with revenue directed by the government to community services.
If you looking to get started with online gaming that choose from our recommended list of NZ pokies sites. These sites also include other forms of casino games such as blackjack, roulette, craps and poker.
New Zealand Online Pokies
| RANK | NZ ONLINE POKIES | NZ POKIE BONUS | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  | 250% up to $12,500 | PLAY NOW |
| 2 |  | 220% up to $1,000 | PLAY NOW |
| 3 |  | 225% up to $1,000 | PLAY NOW |
| 4 |  | 400% up to $10,000 | PLAY NOW |
| 5 |  | 100% up to $3,000 | PLAY NOW |
Traditionally the pokies in New Zealand were all reel based. But through time electronic versions entered the fray, with video pokers and lines based winnings. Progressive pokies is very popular in clubs, whereby many players (previously) carried little buckets for their coins which assisted with moving from pokie machine to pokie machine. Of course, nowadays, players now have pokie cards with digital currency and player points.
The beauty of online pokies is that all the favourites can be found. You will be able to find the classics, the favourites and the new and innovative. Varying from pokie reels to video poker, progressive and non progressive and in a wide variety of denominations, New Zealanders are spoilt for choice.
Choosing Online Pokie Games
All top online pokie sites feature quality games, that include state of the art graphics, integrated animation with advanced functions which typically cannot be found at a physical pokie machine. These features are driving the popularity of online pokies, a key difference which is often overlooked.
All pokie sites also have a wide variety of table games. Blackjack Live Dealer play is fast growing in popularity. The Live Dealer is streamed direct to the playing device, with players provided with the option of choosing the variation of blackjack and type of dealer.
In addition, players look for pokie bonuses which boost their bank roll. Direct real money credit is largely more appreciated than the occasional complimentary drink. Plus online pokie bonuses can reach into the thousands.
Pokie Site Features
Security
New Zealand pokie sites have features that enhance a players experience, extending beyond convenience. All have advanced internet SSL protection installed to prevent sensitive data from being stolen. Overall the risk of cyber attacks on pokie sites are extremely low, however, pokies sites understand the importance of internet security and therefore continue to implement and invest in the latest protection for players.
Payment Methods
They also offer payment methods which are safe and secure, and accept NZD as the preferred player currency. The most common payments methods include credit card, direct deposits, digital e-wallets and bitcoin (BTC). Unsurprising, BTC is rising through the ranks as one of the preferred payment methods. It’s very easy to use, and the fees are extremely low.
24×7 Customer Support
As with any online service, Customer Support is extremely important. Even though it is usually self explanatory with playing online games, there will be times when questions arise – perhaps related to technical, terms and conditions or just generic gaming. Whatever the query, the ability to have accessible customer support and one that is responsive and prompt is highly regarded. The best online pokies sites, provide professional support and is easy accessible through various channels.
Minimum Age for Online Gambling
The gambling age is 18 or above for playing online games.
Online Gambling
Monopoly operators (NZ Racing Board and Lotteries Commission) both object to offshore operators of online gambling. However there is no definitive and explicit laws that prohibit online gambling. Having said that, there are neither laws that permit lawful gaming. Therefore there are some offshore commercial operators that accept Kiwis who want to play online pokies.
The popularity of online gambling is shown through the following turnover statistics.
In 2019, online sports betting, had a gross turnover of just over $100m NZD. This was closely followed by online pokies with $80m. Dropping further behind (and not to be confused with the term pokies) are poker room sites, which accounted for $22m and lastly online bingo with $15m.
Onshore online lottery gross turnover just tipped past online sports betting with $102m, with online horse bets taking out the honours in first place with a massive $156m.
NZ Lottery
The NZ Lottery is permitted to offer online gambling through the sale and promotion of lottery products online. The Lottery, in 2019, had a gross sales turnover of $1.1 billion NZD, which more than doubles other forms of online gambling available to Kiwi’s.
Their biggest selling products are the Lotto, Strike and Powerball.
The NZ Lottery began selling products in 2000, with the launch of the big three Lotto, Strike and Powerball. Throughout the years, sales turnover has grown steadily, to a projected turnover of $1b for 2021.
Legality
All gambling in New Zealand is illegal unless authorised under the 2003 Gambling Act. The Act specifically prohibits remote online gambling but only for New Zealand companies. As a consequence, many offshore online pokie operators accept Kiwi players.
There is one exemption to the online gaming ban, allowing for the lottery to provide online sales and promotions. Furthermore, the Lotteries Commission and Racing Board can offer approved online gambling products.
The advertising of overseas gambling is prohibited in New Zealand.
Taxation
- There is no commercial tax rate within New Zealand as online gambling is illegal outside the monopolies.
- Offshore online gaming operators are taxed according to their respective jurisdiction tax laws.
Regulatory Bodies
New Zealand Gambling Commission
Department of Internal Affairs
Key Legislation
- Gambling Act 2003
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play at online pokies sites?
Yes you can. There are many online pokie sites that accept Kiwi’s. They are safe and secure and allow for NZD denominated player accounts.
What should I look for in an online pokie site?
Stick to the big branded and well know brands. Also ensure that the site, offers the gaming selection that you are looking for. Some excel in slots and others are very good with Live Dealer games. Overall the top online pokie sites will have a broad range of gaming available.
What is the legal age to play at online pokies sites?
The legal minimum age is 18 for New Zealanders. However, take note that some online pokies, will only accept players 21 and above.