Discover Queenstown’s Bars With Pokies And Entertainment

5 Best Bars with Pokies Queenstown
5 Best Bars with Pokies Queenstown

Queenstown has limited pub options with pokies, especially in the city. Most venues with gaming machines are either dedicated casinos like SkyCity Queenstown or smaller pubs with a few machines.

For those looking for alternatives, areas like Frankton and Wanaka have additional options. Wanaka, about an hour’s drive from Queenstown, has a few pubs with pokie machines, while other locations in Otago also provide gaming facilities.

As of 2024, there were over 15,000 pokie machines across non-casino venues in New Zealand, significantly higher than in casinos.

However, strict regulations limit their placement, and Queenstown itself has a smaller selection compared to larger cities like Auckland or Christchurch.

Place a bet, play the pokies, take a gamble, and enjoy a fun night out at one of Queenstown’s casinos. Here, you will find many bars and attractions on the waterfront.

How did we choose these bars?

We wanted to ensure that every establishment on our list of Queenstown’s top bars with slots offered a top-notch and enjoyable experience. We considered several aspects to be sure of this, including:

  1. Quality of pokiesDuring our search, we looked for pubs with various pokie machines that offered a fun and engaging experience.
  2. AtmosphereWe considered the ambience of each pub, including the furnishings, music, and lighting.
  3. AmenitiesWe considered each bar’s other features, such as food and drink selections, outdoor seating, and TVs showing live sporting events.
  4. LocationWe considered each pub’s location and its proximity to other Queenstown attractions.

We selected the five best bars with pokies in Queenstown based on these factors. Each bar on the list offers a unique and entertaining experience for patrons looking to enjoy the pokies in a fun and welcoming environment.

Top Pubs With Pokies in Queenstown

1. Frankton Arm Tavern

Frankton Arm Tavern
Frankton Arm Tavern

Frankton Arm Tavern is a sports bar at 14 Yewlett Crescent, Frankton, Queenstown, New Zealand. It features 14 screens broadcasting live sports, a TAB, a pool table, darts, and a dedicated pokie room.

The bar offers craft beers from brands like Macs, Emerson’s, and Panhead, with an estimated cost per person ranging from $20 to $30. Operating hours are from 11 AM to 11 PM daily, except on Fridays and Saturdays when it remains open until midnight.

Additionally, a courtesy coach is available for drop-offs from 6 PM onward.

The venue maintains active social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram, sharing updates on its menu, gaming options, and promotions.

To make a reservation or more information:

2. Pub On Wharf Queenstown

Pub on Wharf Queenstown
Pub on Wharf Queenstown

The pub operates daily from 10:00 AM until late, serving brunch from opening until 4:00 PM and dinner from 5:00 PM until closing. Guests can also find $20 meal deals, making it an affordable dining option.

Unlike many other pubs, the Pub on Wharf does not allow table reservations or private event bookings. Located on Beach Street, it provides a lakeside view and is near Queenstown Golf Club, Queenstown Gardens, and various lakeside resorts.

The Pokies Gaming

However, it offers limited options for pokies, with only ten machines available.

Refreshments at The Venue

You can also sample their beverages. You can find iconic brands like Steinlager Classic, Tahitian Lime, Macs Hoprocker, Corona, Panhead Pale Ale, and Emersons here.

Address Of Pub On Wharf Queenstown

Discover the inviting atmosphere of Pub on Wharf, situated at 88 Beach Street, Queenstown, 9300. Nestled along the picturesque waterfront, this establishment invites you to immerse yourself in the dynamic energy of Queenstown while enjoying exceptional food, drinks, and camaraderie.

Contact Details For Pub On Wharf Queenstown

Whether you have questions, wish to make a reservation, or want more information:

3. New Orleans Hotel Arrowtown

New Orleans Hotel Arrowtown
New Orleans Hotel Arrowtown

This hotel welcomes one and all into its charming facilities. Functioning since 1866, it is committed to ensuring guest comfort through tantalizing meals, friendly staff, comfortable rooms, and the best hospitality possible.

Outstanding meals are available here, including deep-fried pork, apricot crumble, beer-battered fish, a roast pork sandwich, and macaroni and cheese for the kids.

The Pokies

The Cobb Hotel has about 10 pokie machines, so have a little spin and hopefully pay for that nice bite to eat.

The New Orleans Hotel is the ultimate destination for entertainment, featuring a pool table, dart boards, a self-service TAB, a gaming room with nine machines, and large screens broadcasting major sports events.

Address of New Orleans Hotel

Experience the allure of the New Orleans Hotel, nestled at 27 Buckingham Street, Arrowtown, New Zealand. Situated in the heart of Arrowtown, this charming establishment offers a unique blend of history and hospitality, providing a captivating destination for locals and visitors.

Contact Details For New Orleans Hotel

Whether you have inquiries, reservations or wish to learn more, feel free to reach out:

Best Pubs to Play Pokies in Nelson City

4. SkyCity Queenstown Casino

What’s on at Skycity Queenstown
SkyCity Queenstown

SkyCity Queenstown Casino is a small, licensed casino in Queenstown, New Zealand. Unlike pubs with pokies, it operates as a full-fledged casino focusing on gambling. The venue has a compact gaming floor with 86 pokie machines and table games, including blackjack, roulette, and midi baccarat. While it is primarily a casino, a bar and restaurant are available, serving drinks and casual dining options.

Address & Contact Details

Opening Hours

  • Monday – Sunday: 12 PM – 2 AM

Offerings

  • Pokies: 86 machines
  • Table Games: Blackjack, roulette, and midi baccarat
  • Bar & Dining: A casual restaurant and bar
  • Loyalty Program: SkyCity Premier Rewards

The casino does not offer sports betting or TAB facilities. It primarily caters to players looking for a small-scale casino experience in Queenstown rather than a pub-like atmosphere.

Wanaka Pubs – Alternatives Near Queenstown

The distance between Wanaka and Queenstown is just 69 km, and the drive is very scenic, taking only 1 hour and 10 minutes. So, if you are in Queenstown, you can visit Wanaka for pokies.

1. Water Bar Wanaka

One of the most popular local hangouts and pubs in Wanaka, New Zealand, is the Water Bar at 145 Ardmore Street. It is a licensed bar and restaurant. This bar with pokies Queenstown is trendy due to the excellent view of Wanaka Lake and the nearby mountains.

About The Water Bar Wanaka 

The bar is open from noon and closes late. It is located near the bar. Brownston Street and Macpherson Street are located in the vicinity. The bar started working on June 29, 2012 and is popular among locals for its excellent food, drinks, atmosphere, and pokies gaming facilities.

The pub serves lunch, dinner, brunch, coffee, and drinks. It organizes many events to entertain visitors, such as live entertainment, including performances of popular bands, karaoke nights, music, and quizzes.

Some of the past performers at the pub have been Tikki Taane, Slynk, Upbeat, Truth, Kit Lab, and Landi 6. It has provision for visitors with a wheelchair. It can be leased for functions or parties.

Pokies To Play

As you know, nine poker machines near Queenstown can be found at this venue. It’s the best gaming lounge in Wanaka for playing pokies.

Address of Water Bar Wanaka

Discover the exquisite ambience of Water Bar Wanaka, located at 145 Ardmore St, Wanaka 9305, New Zealand. This destination is amidst stunning landscapes and offers a captivating experience that seamlessly merges relaxation and entertainment. Its central location is perfect for unwinding and indulging in a memorable evening.

Contact Details For Water Bar Wanaka

For inquiries or reservations, please don’t hesitate to get in touch:

  • Phone: Call 3-443 4345 to speak to the team.
  • Email: Via [email protected] for any questions or reservations.
  • Website: For more information, check out services at http://www.waterbarwanaka.co.nz/wanaka-Bar&Grill/.
  • Opening Hours: 7 days a week, from noon till late.

2. Wanaka Districts Club

It is a warm, welcoming establishment located at 45 Plantation Road. It is glad to usher members, affiliates, and guests into its doors. This place is family-friendly, so it has ample dining and entertainment amenities.

Enjoy the latest live sports and try your hand at the self-service TAB. The gaming room has pokies guaranteed to quench your desire for excitement and maybe a nice payout. The club also celebrates special days of the year.

Pokies & About The Wanaka Districts Club

At the Wanaka Districts Club, you will find many tasty snacks to enjoy. All meals at the club are affordable and feature generous servings. As such, it is a perfect place for your family to dine out.

This club is tiny, so it only has four pokie machines available.

Address of Wanaka Districts Club

Explore the charm of Wanaka Districts Club, nestled at 45 Plantation Road, Wanaka, 9305, New Zealand. This inviting location offers a welcoming atmosphere where patrons can relish various experiences. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Wanaka, the club is a destination that seamlessly blends relaxation and social engagement.

Contact Details For Wanaka Districts Club

For inquiries, reservations, or more information, feel free to reach out:

  • Phone: Contact directly at 03 443 8080 to connect with the team.
  • Email: Reach at [email protected] and let the team assist you.
  • Opening Hours: The club is open from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM
  • Price Range: Ranging from $5 to $30.

Wanaka Bullock Bar

This bar is a warm and welcoming place. At this venue, you can enjoy classic Kiwi hospitality. There are delicious meals, cool drinks, entertainment, and all the popular gaming machines that Kiwis love playing.

The venue features 16 big-screen TVs displaying a sports collection, including rugby, boxing, hockey, women’s beach volleyball, and UFC.

Wanaka Bullock Bar serves a wide assortment of bites. They are prepared and served in the dining section of The Grill Restaurant.

You can enjoy hands-on fun with the leisure amenities at the Wanaka Bullock Bar. Two pool tables are on hand and multiple dart boards around the bar. Guests can enjoy a giant Jenga, access to 18 gaming machines, and the only self-service TAB in Wanaka.

Address of Wanaka Bullock Bar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Wanaka Bullock Bar, located at 71 Ardmore Street, Wanaka 9035. Nestled in the heart of Wanaka, this establishment invites you to immerse yourself in an enchanting blend of entertainment, community, and culinary delights.

Contact Details For Wanaka Bullock Bar

For inquiries, reservations, or any information you may need, feel free to reach out:

  • Phone: Dial 03 443 7148 to connect with our friendly team directly.
  • Opening Hours:
    • Monday – Friday, Sunday: 11:00 AM until late
    • Saturday: 10:00 AM until late

At Wanaka Bullock Bar, we ensure your experience is memorable and enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax, socialize, or enjoy a satisfying meal, our team is ready to welcome you.

Takeaways

If you’re looking to explore the nightlife in Queenstown while also enjoying a few rounds of pokies, “5 Best Bars with Pokies Queenstown” mentioned above is an excellent resource to start with.

Queenstown has limited choices for pubs with pokies, with most gaming options concentrated in small venues or the SkyCity Queenstown Casino.

The SkyCity Queenstown Casino remains the city’s primary choice for pokies players. At the same time, alternative pubs in Wanaka and other Otago regions offer additional options for casual gaming.

By following this guide, you can ensure that you have a memorable experience while enjoying some of the best bars with pokies in Queenstown. So, grab your friends and head out to explore the exciting nightlife of Queenstown!

FAQs

Are the pubs in Queenstown open 24 hours a day?

No, most bars with pokies in Queenstown have set hours of operation. Typically, they are open from mid-morning until late at night. However, this may differ between bars, so you must check every casino in Queenstown for their timing.

Is there a dress code for venues with pokies in Queenstown?

Different bars have different dress codes. While some offer a more relaxed dress policy, others may require more formal wear. Always check with the bar beforehand to ensure you are dressed appropriately.

How old do I need to be to play pokies in Queenstown?

The legal age for gambling or playing poker machines in Queenstown is 20 years or above. You must be 20 years or older to enter any casino in Queenstown.