How to Spot Top Online Casinos for Kiwi Players?
New Zealand players desire one thing: a safe and secure gaming site! Thus, security remains a priority when trying to find the best online casino for Kiwi gamblers. But, it isn’t the only feature to look for in any NZ or AUS casino online. Other distinguishing features include:
Game variety, genres, and frequency: It is vital to have a good range of games. Players deserve many game types for fun. The number of times the sites bring in new games is also critical.
Online casino bonuses and bonus terms: Punters search for what they can get from a casino. Many promos may be appealing. But, the terms attached define the level of commitment.
Banking methods: You cannot play without a suitable banking option. Money trades need trusted means. Most kiwis prefer a single method for cashing out and paying.
Punter support system: Receiving a fast response to inquiries or complaints is a plus. More means of reaching the site staff improves client services. These may include live chats, emails, or voice calls.
Betting Choices: A casino and a live casino is the preferable choice. But, if sports, virtual, or e-sports betting is present, betting picks become diverse!
License validity, security, and player safety measures: sites must be legal to operate in a specific region via licenses. Players must have an assurance of site security. All safety measures must be on display for testing.
How to check if an Online Casino is Legit
Checking if an online gambling website is legit is a simple process. It includes:
1. Check whether the site appears in our online casino reviews NZ. Our testing process removes likely scam sites. Players can trust websites we provide for gaming purposes.
2. Review the license. Always have a look at the license. If the provider is a trusted source of authority, consider signing up. But, first, verify the license number with said authorities.
3. Look for Site Security. Most gambling sites use SSL encryptions to secure. The casino must have a trusted URL like HTTPS and a padlock on the search bar to review.
4. Certificates. Third-party audits issue permits such as eCOGRA or ITech Labs.
5. Available game suppliers. Major providers only offer game services with safe and legit sites.
How We Review the Best Casino Sites
Deciding on what to pursue in an online casino is tiring. In most instances, players have no idea what one wants. Many only sign up as a game. Others want to have fun or compete!
Making a decision requires exact details. We deliver these particulars of any great online casino. So if you have no idea where to start, take your first step with us.
Our testing process includes signing up with our subject site. We play on any site that accepts NZ dollars and players. We start with cashing in funds, at least the amount as a deposit, with a claim on casino bonuses. The process ends with cashing out real money rewards won.
We evaluate every single term in the fine print. Also, we review customer support systems in place. Finally, our process ends by listing the best New Zealand online casinos!
Casino Bonus Offers
Available promos for players, both new and existing, determine a casino’s rank. Casino experts indicate that the best sites offer varying bonus types. Players can claim welcome bonuses, match bonuses, free spins, and more! The wide variety increases players’ desire to play.
But, there are a few things to consider. What bonus terms do you need to fulfill, including:
- Wagering requirements
- Eligibility criteria
- Bonus codes
- Offers for existing and new NZ players
These can be a little tricky if not paying attention. But, we have all the details you need right here.
Deposit-based offers: These are gifts to kiwis with a deposit as a primary condition. Casinos express deposit bonuses in the form of a percentage. For instance, you will get a 100% match bonus on any deposit. So if you deposit $10, you get another $10. You end up with a total of $20 in your account. Players can expect the first deposit offer and the second deposit offer from top sites.
Free Spins: It is the most appealing bonus for players. Most gaming sites offer 50 free spins for your pleasure. Some well-known sites can increase the number to 150 free spins. But, the best offer is a breakdown of the spins into sections or day issues. For instance, 25 spins a day for 6 days to meet the 150 spins.
Cashback: It is an offer that delivers cash funds to players. It is a percentage of every wager or NZ dollar spent for a period. The bonus funds do have a maximum limit. But, the cash reward is almost limitless.
No deposit offers: This specific bonus remains your bank account intact. Instead, the casino provides cash rewards or spins without a deposit condition. You can spend the spins on slots of your choice!
Loyalty Bonuses/ VIP program: Casinos in NZ value their kiwi players. Since bigger bonuses can present a challenge, many offer loyalty points. Every stake on any casino game online earns you a point in the loyalty program. You collect the loyalty points over time and can redeem them for cash prizes.
Game Variety
Online casinos vying for the top position need legit game titles. Popular games must rank as the top NZ casino games. Every site must have thrilling and fun classics like blackjack or poker. Some players favour simple gameplay like online slots. But, some excel live casinos. You can play live casino versions of roulette if you want.
Considerations in a ranking also include RTPs or higher payouts. It indicates your expected payouts after a gaming session. Fast-paced games and better odds should provide guidance.
We also look at software providers. Our focus is on the game developers’ reputation. Research on the providers’ real money games ensures diversity.
Here are some of the game types you will find.
- Pokies: The most sought-after game type is pokies online. Pokies, also called slots, have the highest payout percentages. Players can select from classic types with 3-reels and a few paylines. But if willing to take it a step further, you can go for Megaways with multiple paylines and bonus features.
- Table games: Pick any of the select classics in card games. Some of the popular table games include poker or baccarat! Pick any roulette variant like Lightning Roulette and win real money based on the pure chance! If seeking the most popular table games, go for blackjack!
- Jackpots: These are slots with huge winnings and multiple pay lines! Cash stakes that don’t garner a win accumulate to make up the jackpot prize. Jackpots are the most popular games at CasiGo Casino and many New Zealand casinos.
- Live Dealers: Live casinos bring in a live, personal experience. Players play against live dealers over an interactive user interface. Live shows attract exclusive bonuses, bets, and fast payouts.
- Video Poker: The best New Zealand websites offer quality video poker games. The game gives players a chance to get the best online casino sites’ software. You can play any poker variation at the casino. In most instances, the payout rates for the game are 100%.
- Keno and Scratch Cards: Playing the lottery is a favourite pastime for many casino players. All these casinos take advantage of this and deliver keno and scratch card games online. For example, keno allows players to pick out random numbers. Then, a draw determines the winners. In scratch cards, the play is simple. First, you buy a card and scratch it. Then, identify the numbers and match them to a draw. If there is a match, you get a reward depending on the numbers compared!
- Craps: It may not be preferable for New Zealand Players, but it is a fun game. Punters gamble on the outcomes of the dice in craps. The dealer throws a pair in this case. The totals on the dice facing up are the outcome.
Signup Process
New Zealand aims to protect players by executing strict rules on gambling data. Kiwi casinos online are easily accessible to kids and teenagers. Verification of data upon signing up helps prevent underage gaming. Also, it helps ensure players do not have problem gambling!
Still, players need smooth, fast, and efficient services. Most casinos will ask for an email, a username, and a password! Entering these details does not consume a whole minute.
For confirmation, the most common route is personal info. A gambling casino account can’t be activated without it. The data includes your actual names, birth dates, and address.
Others will ask for your home region and currency of use. All the information is standard practice for players. Once you submit, a responsible site will need confirmation. Thus, most ask for verification through email. Filling in the form and the confirmation takes less than 5 minutes. That is efficient, and the site ranks higher!
But, some sites ask for extra details that take too long to verify! For such an instance, it becomes challenging to complete the signup. A complex process results in a drop in casino rating!
Deposit and Withdrawal Options
A good casino experience needs a reliable New Zealand online casino site. It means the online casino has to offer various deposit methods. Some sites provide access to similar banking options for punters to withdraw. Also, players must be able to use online casino NZ dollars. Above all, players must feel safe and secure with their select banking options.
Available options include:
- E-wallets: These are digital services where players can store, retrieve and make actual cash payments. These are safe and fast. A good example is Neteller or PayPal.
- Credit and debit cards: These are tangible and secure banking options. In a casino, these offer instant deposits, but cashouts can take a little while.
- Bank transfers: These are the most reliable withdrawal method and deposits available. But, cash-outs take longer to process. Thus, deposits remain instant transactions!
Some of the local options include:
- POLi: it allows players to access and own a banking account online. Kiwi players can make fast, direct, and lowly charged transactions. Plus, it has a simple signup process. The customer support services are also on point.
- Zimpler: it is an e-wallet that offers both withdrawal and cash-in services. Owners have complete control over their funds. But, you keep your money in one location like Mega Vault. So, it makes it easier to track your gambling money. Plus, you can transfer the amount to your select bank account.
- Skrill NZ: it is a payment option specific to New Zealand players. All transactions are New Zealand dollars, but players can select suitable currencies. The digital wallet can send, receive and transfer funds to and from various places.
- Gcash: it is a mobile wallet that launched in the Philippines. But, players in New Zealand can use it when playing online. First, a simple download and app installation delivers the service to your phone. Then, signup and follow the steps to complete a transaction.
- Boku: it is another independent mobile-phone wallet. You can pay on the site via phone. The crediting is instant, but withdrawals can take a while. Players need to check whether the casino allows Boku or accepts NZ dollars before signing up.
- Payforit: the payment method was explicitly for use in schools. But, the functions are similar to a gambler’s money management process. It can help collect money from any banking source and allocate it to gambling sites. Check whether the site offers it before signing up.
Unique Features
Added features like free credits on a site make it more inviting. New online casino features also add to the appeal. Such features include highly prized jackpots or recent 3D game releases. In addition, the invention of digital coins and their use have made anonymity much easier to achieve. Also, playing at new online casinos is much easier and faster.
An attractive feature is multiple screen slots. Players’ winning chances multiply during gameplay. But, one has to develop better skills to keep all screens within view. Any online casino offering multiple screen slots is a must-visit.
You can play and learn to use avalanche reels. The reels define the gaming platform as being different. You can start playing with the pioneer of the said feature Netent slots. Another name for the quality is rolling or cascading reels!
Industry Reputation
The online world, i.e., the gaming industry, is always at loggerheads with gaming authorities. In most instances, it is about tax payments. But, some cases of fraud and scams make an appearance amongst gamblers in New Zealand. As a result, casino players need a haven. It might seem odd, but even gamblers need a safe place to gamble.
Gambling in New Zealand includes online communities. We check for problem gambling sites and forums. We ensure players gamble responsibly. It helps keep the gambling industry regulated. If not, licensed operators could lose their licenses.
It is the function of online casinos to protect online players. License enforcements also prevent most cases of money laundering! It is a tough position, but it can help ensure responsible gambling.
Security and Support
New Zealand and Malta Gaming Commissions rule the online casinos in the country. Dunedin Casino operates the New Zealand Gambling Commission license. If not, you can look for other licensing organizations like Kahnawake. Cosmo Casino operates under Kahnawake from Canada. But, many popular sites like SkyCity online casino operate under Malta. All these licenses are legal in New Zealand.
Kiwi casinos also provide support to gamblers online. Players must determine the legal status of real money online casinos. Legitimate operators offer live chat customer support systems.
Players can access the terms and privacy statement of the site. These define and provide answers to players’ most common casino questions. It also provides the consequences of breach of bonus terms. Contingencies for individuals facing problem gambling are also available.
Online casinos in New Zealand employ third parties for audits. You can check the various testing sites of the casinos on the main page. One of these auditing authorities is eCOGRA, BeGambleAware.org, and more.
Mobile Experience
Nothing beats accessing the casino than on a mobile phone. When sitting on the couch, you can not only get cash stakes but your bets too. You can check game results when relaxing in bed. If walking, in the subway, or a bus, go ahead and play a match online and win. It makes mobile device casinos more convenient than desktops!
But, the mobile experience can go either way: satisfying or wrong. A good experience involves fast website access. A simple login process is an added benefit. No delays in loading time enhance gaming time. What is more crucial is a wide mobile game range and online casino bonuses. Plus, you can cash out winnings paid from anywhere and anytime.
Convenient access to sites can include an optimized website. Here, there is no need for extra downloads. Regular login details for your desktop will suffice while using the phone.
You can also go for a mobile app. For example, most top NZ online casinos will have apps. These are compatible with all mobile operators, including Apple’s iOS, Android or Windows. Sometimes, a simple download or mobile phone access earns you a welcome offer! For example, some promos have a preset condition “for use only on phones”!
Licensing and legislation
Gambling is a rising favourite pastime among New Zealand’s people. Stories of winnings confiscated by new casino sites are widespread. Also, players waiting long periods for cash-outs are a usual complaint. Don’t forget chances of player exploitation! Thus, players are now looking into licensing to avoid scams. There will be no disappointments if an online casino operates in the right region like Malta or Kahnawake.
An independent body like Third-party auditors, e.g., eCOGRA for games, means you can trust a site. If not present, look for independent services or bodies where players can complain, such as the ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution) body. Also, the casinos must commit to responsible playing and provide links to bodies like BeGambleAware.org. Others include a valid test on game software and types, plus an in-depth review of all casino dealings.
There are only two authorized gambling online providers in the country: Lotto NZ and the TAB. Offshore online casinos are legal. But, New Zealand’s government has minimal regulations on them.
Does the casino appear on blacklists?
If a casino appears on a famous online casino review site’s blacklist, you will not find it amongst ours. This is because our researchers conduct comprehensive searches across the internet. Of course, casinos must clean their reputations and provide proof. But, if our searches unearth unresolved complaints, it becomes a major loss to the site.
Not all online casinos offer genuine information. But, a few trusted online casinos deliver truthful data. One is top NZ casinos whose research has all crucial details on all other sites. Another trusted review site is Reddit, as actual clients can verify the comments.
Unresolved issues indicate a major problem with customer services. Also, it shows that a casino isn’t willing to provide quality casino services and is illegal. Finally, the presence of a site on a blacklist shows that the site is a danger to players. You may end up losing your money with no refunds and no winnings.
Languages Supported
New Zealand is a country allowing many individuals of various nationalities to visit it. While on tour, individuals may desire a game or two online. Thus, many will seek sites that are either in English or their local tongue.
Casinos with a multilingual platform are the best. If you prefer to play and converse in English, you simply select English in the language section. Every functionality and text converts into the English language. The same happens if you like German or French.
You can read, understand and apply casino instructions in multiple languages. Any terms are easy to comprehend. Also, you cannot breach as you can internalize the terms.
Opinions from Reddit
Reddit is the most trusted online casino for reviews. If you want to evaluate your select site, visit the Reddit community. It is so widespread with players from all over the world. If you haven’t seen any of the listed sites, first seek more data on this specific review website.
Reddit provides a star rating for every casino site. Below the rating, you will find several comments from actual people. In addition, you can verify the usernames. All data provided on Reddit can ensure you make an informed decision.
Licensing and Legislation for Online Casinos in New Zealand
The New Zealand Gambling Act of 2003 caters to all NZD online casinos. The specific reference is “Remote Gambling” while residing in New Zealand. It translates to players playing on sites without a base in the country. The Internal Affairs Department is responsible for online gambling activities for New Zealanders.
The government classifies online gaming services into 4. The first two do not need an active license. But, the last two require one. To qualify, the sites must have a value rising to New Zealand dollars 5,000 and more. It means any site that has a gaming machine.
Compliance with agencies regulating gambling in the country is a complicated case. There are four different authorities with rules to adhere to for a casino. These include the Internal Affairs Ministry, the Ministry of Health, the Gambling Commission, and the New Zealand Lotteries Commission. Obedience and meeting set rules can take a while. But, online gambling legal licenses come from New Zealand or the Malta Gaming Commission.
How does a Licensed Operator Protect Kiwi Players?
Top NZ online casinos must act as protective shields for kiwi players. Online gambling authorities have a complete list that fully licensed casinos must meet. The authority aims to ensure the validity of a site for players who want to play online.
Player protection is through license enforcement by relevant bodies. A licensed operator protects players through fair gameplay. It is only possible through third-party audits. Third-party organizations such ITech Labs are responsible for ensuring fair and just gameplay.
Licensed operators are also responsible for protecting customer data. Information shared with casinos should remain safe and secure and without unauthorized access cases. Also, providing reliable gaming services for addicted players is a must for online casinos. It shows you care and are concerned about your members.
Lastly, players need a working complaint resolution process. Players need somewhere to channel their complaints. It helps create a platform for reconciliation. Plus, it maintains the relationship between a licensed operator and the public/clients!
Fairness of Gameplay
An operating license restricts and audits website games and other operations. It proceeds in such steps:
- The Malta Gaming Authority license shows a trusted range of games.
- A known casino licensing authority explores deeper into a site.
- It conducts an in-depth search on all functionalities.
- It evaluates the game software.
- It ensures play is fair and not preset.
Personal Data Protection
Casinos must indicate the usage of personal data. For instance, other sites may ask for personal data. In addition, most sites use it for advertising. But, the casino isn’t allowed to issue any personal data.
The privacy contract indicates when and how to use data provided. New Zealand casino players must issue valid consent for the use. The support must be before the sharing of the data. If not, the casino is in breach of the contract.
But, all data is in the fine print. Punters must read the terms carefully. Check for contract terms you fail to grasp. Check their meanings and conduct a review. Once sure of the terms, only then do you issue any personal data!
Responsible Gambling and Crime Prevention
License granters verify responsible gambling services before issuing one. Problematic gambling can increase crime. It is a situation when a gambler plays not for fun but because it is addictive!
Online casinos issue guidelines on how to know you have an addiction. It includes:
- Dipping into your house allowances;
- Playing continuously without rest;
- Loss of contact with family and friends;
- Job loss due to gambling;
- Investing everything you or have or getting into a gamble (betting).
Licensed sites provide ways to help oneself. For example, you can register with responsible gambling services. It will help rehabilitate your behaviour over time. If you have a feeling you are becoming addicted, you can contact the following sites and ask for help:
- https://www.pgf.nz/
- https://www.dia.govt.nz/Services-Casino-and-Non-Casino-Gaming-Problem-Gambling
- https://www.health.govt.nz/our-work/mental-health-and-addiction/addiction/gambling/problem-gambling-services
Complaints and License Enforcement
A regular working license means a casino is responsible for all actions. Thus, customer complaints must be seen to or resolved. But, the complaint must meet the license conditions on validity. Remember, ignorance of casino rules or terms is no excuse for breach or complaint.
Common complaint casinos include:
- Casino terms and conditions such as wagering conditions;
- Minimum and maximum betting, cash-out, and deposit amounts can be confusing;
- Processes through a cash-out occur, is void or cancelled;
- Game errors;
- Rogue sites.
The complaint process is simple, and players should follow the mentioned procedure:
- A direct complaint to the site. Ensure to keep all records of said complaint!
- Raise the issue with the ADR or the Alternate Dispute Resolution Company. But, it is only in cases where the casino fails to meet your complaint.
- Post the complaint and evidence on Reddit.
Best Сasinos in New Zealand for Pokies
Well, it is not a difficult decision but a hard choice. The main reason is that there are a lot of best New Zealand casinos for pokies in the country. So you may end up picking more than on the site.
But, you can use the game collection to help you decide. Check the providers as well. Some have the best features in games. Others have better jackpots! Don’t forget to evaluate the payout percentages. It is a defining factor!
Top 3 Blackjack Casinos in New Zealand
The game is quite basic but very unique and simple in play. But, it has many fans amongst the kiwis. Knowing what to look for in a blackjack casino can make a difference.
- Online casino players should check game variations. As a classic title, there are many variants of the same title.
- Review the providers, especially for live shows.
- Get a chance to evaluate the betting limits on offer.
Supreme Roulette Casinos in New Zealand
It isn’t such a challenging game to play. But, simplicity does not mean neglect. Some sites only issue two game variants and expect players to be happy. It doesn’t happen. A fantastic roulette site will offer:
- Several variants of the game;
- Higher and lower limits or bets depending on the game;
- Excellent providers, especially for live roulette.
Top-notch Live Dealer Casinos in New Zealand
These are fun for individuals desiring that human element. You make bets, join a match and work with a real dealer over a device. The best New Zealand casino offering live shows must include
- Proper HD streaming services;
- Excellent, bright, and exclusive gaming sites;
- Real-time player interactions or gameplay.
Hot Mobile Casinos in New Zealand
Choosing a mobile casino isn’t about what is available on the desktop. It is about what you can access on your mobile. If you can download and play with minimal delays, then all is good.
If the site can work on any operator, such as iOS or Android, it becomes more diverse. Players should get a seamless experience while using the phone. Mobile websites should deliver the same service quality as desktops.
Best Rated Payout Online Casino NZ
Players refer to payout rates when picking up top-rated casinos in NZ. Payout is the amount a player gets as a win when playing any online casino game. The amount is dependent on the house edge, gaming odds, and RTPs. Thus, a best-rated payout online casino in New Zealand will have friendly house edges. The odds in sports betting would favour the kiwis. Also, the RTP rate for a game should be high! But, players don’t have to seek all this information. On top NZ casinos, we list only the best online casinos with great payouts!
Top 3 Land Based Casinos in New Zealand
Thus, the land-based casinos retain their popularity in New Zealand. The best include:
Christchurch Casino
It is one of the most diverse casinos on land. Apart from gambling, you also get good food while at it. You can also partake in live shows, music, and events while at the venue. After engaging your appetite, take a chance at the 500 or more of the best online pokies. If not, the table games will do the trick!
SkyCity
You can call it the best NZ casino or the largest casino in the country. The casino has four other establishments in New Zealand and one in Australia. So you can enjoy any number of games anytime you pass by one!
Dunedin
The Dunedin casino has been serving the kiwis for an extended period since 1994. You can enjoy the past with a mix of traditional reels. You can also go for the future or modern, with pokies and especially jackpots. The casino will answer your every gaming whim.
How to Open a Casino Account
Setting up a new membership is easy. All you need is your select website. Then, do a simple search online and open the main page. Next, click on sign-in, join now or log in. if you cannot find an icon, click on any games. The first prompt will ask you to register first!
Step 1. Click on Sign-in: it is an apparent icon on the site’s main page. It opens up a form where you enter your details.
Step 2. Login details: the form requests login information such as email address. Next, you come up with a username and, finally, a password.
Step 3. Personal Details: After generating login details, it is time to enter the personal information. It includes data like your unique names, real addresses, not just the email, currency, and much more.
Step 4. Submit: check the data entered once more, and then Submit. Confirm details through your email.
Your casino account is ready for use!
NZ Gambling Market Overview
Online gambling is an industry whose growth is “Heading to the Roof!” Even though the pandemic hit hard across the globe, the effects were almost zero on the online casino industry in New Zealand. The country experienced the highest rise in expenditures in gambling activities in 2020.
The numbers aren’t for the whole year, but for the period ending in December and starting in September. A single individual spent around $204 on gambling alone. The highlights show that players spent a total of $252 million within this period. The internal affairs department indicates that the numbers are the highest witnessed in the country since 2007.
The only gambling sector to see a rise in expenditure in 2020 was lotteries, with a 13% rise. But, that was before the last quarter of the year where everything changed. The gaming machines got an increase of 6.4%. In general, the profit rose by around 116%.
Chris Thornborough, the director for the Internal Affairs Department, says that the outcome was unexpected. He was admitted to the department tracking pokies machines. He highlights the expected losses due to Covid-19. But, the unexpected was the rise and comeback by the players. He defines recovery as “Vigorous!”
Lotteries were not affected as much. Kiwis kept buying, and the expenses were higher by 13% in 2020. The total amount rose to $631. Peter Dengate Thrush describes the comeback as a “wider trend in New Zealand’s economy.” He is the Chair of the Gaming Machines Association in the country. He goes a step further to provide evidence of growth. The activity was more of a rebound in the final quarter, where sales went up with a 14% increase. But who can argue with that!
But, not everyone has the same version of the story. Others claim that the gambling money is coming from underprivileged and poor New Zealand citizens. Martin Cheer, one of the Pub Charity executives, indicates that the rise shouldn’t be surprising. ‘People were home for a long time with no avenue through which to spend their money. He says that the amount was just discretionary spending! But, he denotes that the lotto, one of the trending gambling tactics, damaged poor communities.
The invention and spread of online casinos do not help matters. Since the younger population is more exposed to new technologies, more have adapted to gambling. Regulations governing online sites may be in place, but its execution is still wanting. It may be difficult for the country to keep young or poor people away from online casinos. Websites must identify minors and seclude them away. It will protect and preserve their funds in a secure place.
The future seems not so far away with online casinos in New Zealand. But, we may be seeing new legislation allowing online sites a base in the country.
Top NZ Casino FAQ
Can you gamble online in NZ?
Yes, online casinos in NZ are legal. But, players must practice care to avoid scams.
Are online casinos rigged?
No, each legal site undergoes external audits. These ensure games are fair.
Is an online casino safe to play?
Yes. Each site has essential security measures in place. These include SSL encryptions and more.
How do you know if an online casino is legit?
You can check the registration certificates. If not, the license and other audit certificates will give you the information.
Does anyone win at online casinos?
Yes, every player has a chance to win. The games run on software that is independent and random in outcomes issued.
Is online gambling legal in New Zealand?
Yes, online gambling is legal in New Zealand. Players can visit offshore sites. But, make sure these have the right governing authority’s licenses.