Are Pokies Open Today?

Are pokies open today in New Zealand? This question echoes through the minds of both avid gamblers and casual entertainment seekers alike. In a country where pokies, also known as slot machines, have firmly embedded themselves in the cultural fabric, the status of these gaming devices holds considerable significance.

New Zealand’s relationship with pokies is a unique one. These mesmerizing machines, known for their spinning reels and dazzling lights, provide not only entertainment but also a substantial boost to the hospitality industry. From bustling cities to remote corners, they have become a beloved form of pastime, gracing local pubs, clubs, and grand casinos.

Learn more – Land Pokies Decrease as Kiwis Go Online

Let’s explore what is the status of pokies today in New Zealand.

Impact of COVID-19 on Pokies

The sweeping impact of the COVID-19 pandemic reached even the heart of New Zealand’s gambling industry. This health crisis triggered a series of profound changes, affecting every facet of the gaming landscape. For pokie enthusiasts and gambling establishments alike, the pandemic ushered in an era of unpredictability and adaptation.

The virus’s presence instilled fear and uncertainty among potential patrons, resulting in a significant reduction in foot traffic at gambling venues. Many individuals, prioritizing health and safety, opted to forgo their visits to casinos, clubs, and pubs housing pokies. This shift in consumer behaviour translated into a noticeable dip in the industry’s revenue streams.

Read more – Land Pokies Decrease as Kiwis Go Online

Navigating Lockdowns and Restrictions

When the COVID-19 pandemic emerged, the New Zealand government introduced different types of lockdowns and rules to stop the virus from spreading. Businesses like gaming places, where pokies are found, had to close for a while. This meant that pokies went quiet, making both the people who run them and the players unsure about what would happen next.

As the pandemic continued, the rules changed based on where outbreaks happened. Some areas had stricter rules and had to keep places with pokies closed for longer.

These changes had a big impact on the pokies world. They didn’t just affect money – they also changed how people enjoyed playing. The industry made changes to keep everyone safe when they opened up again, like following strict health rules to protect the workers and people who wanted to play.

Suggested Read – Are Online Pokies Safe?

Regional Variations

The availability of pokies in New Zealand depends upon a specific area. If you want to know whether slot machines are available in near your area or not, then you must know its regulations and regional variations in your specific area.

Let’s learn about specific pokies availability in different regions of New Zealand.

Pokies in Auckland

If you are from Auckland and want to know if pokies are open or available in your region then you are in the right place. Your confusion ends here, popular pubs and bars are there in Auckland, where you will get the opportunity to play and place bets in pokies machines.

There are over 1,000 pokie machines in Auckland, located in pubs, clubs, and TABs. The maximum number of pokie machines allowed in any one venue is 120.

Here are some places where you can find pokies in Auckland:

• Pubs: Many pubs in Auckland have pokie machines. Some of the most popular pubs with pokies include the Gemini Bar and Gaming, the QF Tav, and the Crown Sports Bar.
• Clubs: There are many clubs in Auckland that have poker machines. Some of the most popular clubs with pokies include the Howick Club, the Otahuhu Club, and the Remuera Club.
• TABs: TABs are government-run betting shops that also have pokie machines. There are several TABs in Auckland.

Read more – The Best 6 Places to Play Pokies in Auckland

Operating hours of Pokies in Auckland

The operating hours of pokies in Auckland, New Zealand vary depending on the venue. However, the general rule is that pokies are open from 10 am to 10 pm, seven days a week.

Here are some specific examples of operating hours for pokies in Auckland:

• The QF Tav: 10 am to 4 am, seven days a week.
• The Right Track Sports Cafe: 9 am to 1 am, seven days a week.
• The Crown Sports Bar: 10 am to 10 pm, seven days a week.

It is always best to check with the specific venue before you go to confirm their operating hours.

Pokies in Hamilton

There are over 400 pokie machines in Hamilton, located in pubs, clubs, and TABs.

The Bank Bar & Brasserie is a local favourite that offers a warm environment and a selection of poker machines for entertainment. The bar also houses a TAB for sports betting enthusiasts and Keno for those looking for a fun game to play.

What Time Does Pokies Open in Hamilton?

If you are interested in knowing about the General operating hours of pokies in Hamilton today or Is the Casino Open today, then read the following information to get informed.

• The Frankton Hotel – 9 am to late, 7 days a week
• The Glenview Club – 2 pm to 10 pm or late at weekends, 7 days a week
• The Hamilton Cosmopolitan Club – 10 am to 10:30 pm or midnight at weekends
• The Hamilton Workingmen’s Club Inc – 10 am to 12 pm
• The Bank Bar & Brasserie – 11:30 am to 9 pm

It is always best to check with the specific venue before you go to confirm their operating hours.

Pokies in Christchurch

There are over 1,500 pokie machines in Christchurch, located in pubs, clubs, and TABs.

If your question is Are Pokies open in Christchurch today, then believe me you are in the best place. There are multiple slot places that have the ability to fill your lives with fun and entertainment.

The popular Tabs and Pokies places available include

What Time Does Pokies Open in Christchurch?

• Christchurch Casino – It is open 24 hours over the weekend and until 3 am Monday to Thursday
• Xtreme Entertainment – Open every day from 10:00 AM till late
• Armadillos Restaurant – Monday to Sunday: 11:00 AM – 09:00 PM (except Wednesday and Thursday, which have extended hours).
• Whistle Sports Bar – 7 days, from early till late.
• Robbie’s Bar Riccarton – 7 days, from early morning till 11:00 PM.

Pokies in Dunedin

In the Dunedin region of New Zealand, you can find a directory of local venues that offer poker machines (pokies), including pubs, clubs, and casinos. Dunedin, located on the eastern coast of the South Island, is a dynamic city known for its vibrant culture, historical significance, and lively ambience.

What Time Does Pokies Open in Dunedin?

• Carisbrook Hotel – Open from 11:00 Am to 1:00 AM
• The Baaa Sports Bar & Grill – Open from 11:00 Am to 1:00 AM or Late
• Ocean Beach Hotel – 10:30 Am to 10:30 PM daily
• The Law Courts Hotel – 8:00 Am to 9:00 PM or late at Weekends
• The Rope and Twine – 10:30 AM to 10:00 PM daily
• The Tripplers Sports Bar – 10:30 AM to 08:00 PM daily

Learn more – Best 8 Venues To Play Pokies in Dunedin

Hours of Operation for Machines in New Zealand

In New Zealand, the hours of operation for poker machines (pokies) are subject to regulations set by the Department of Internal Affairs. These regulations are designed to promote responsible gambling and ensure that venues offering pokies adhere to specific guidelines.

Here’s a general overview of the typical hours of operation for pokies in New Zealand:

1. Opening Hours: Most venues with pokies, including bars, clubs, and casinos, open their gaming areas in the late morning, usually around 10 AM or 11 AM. This allows patrons to enjoy these games during regular daytime hours.
2. Closing Hours: To encourage responsible gambling, these venues typically close their poker machines around midnight. This helps ensure that gaming activities conclude at a reasonable hour, minimizing late-night gambling.
3. Early Morning Restrictions: There are strict restrictions on early morning hours. Venues are not allowed to operate pokies between 3 AM and 8 AM. This measure helps prevent excessive gambling during late-night and early-morning periods.
4. Public Holidays: On public holidays, some venues may have extended operating hours, allowing pokies to run later into the night. However, these extensions are still within the limits of responsible gambling practices.
5. Variations by Venue: Keep in mind that the operating hours may vary depending on the specific type and location of the venue. For example, casinos often have more flexible hours compared to smaller bars or clubs.

Operational Status at Christmas

Getting confused about Are pokies open Christmas Day. Don’t worry, read the following information to get your doubts cleared.

So, the answer is

No, pokies are not open on Christmas Day in New Zealand. Christmas Day is a statutory public holiday in New Zealand, so schools, government offices, and many private businesses are closed. This includes pokies venues.

However, pokies may be open on other days during the Christmas season, such as Christmas Eve and Boxing Day. It is always best to check with the specific venue before you go to confirm their hours of operation.

As per Galaxy Training Australia, On Christmas Eve, the sale and supply of alcohol and the operation of gaming machines must finish at 12 midnight.

What pokies are open now in New Zealand?

Generally, Pokie machines are open in New Zealand from 10 am to 11 pm, seven days a week. However, there may be some exceptions to this rule, such as on Sundays or public holidays.

You can find pokies along with their typical opening hours here:

1. Wellington:

• SkyCity Wellington Casino: Located in the heart of Wellington, this casino offers a range of poker machines and table games. It’s usually open from 10 AM until 4 AM on weekdays and operates for 24 hours during weekends.

2. Auckland (SkyCity Auckland):

• SkyCity Auckland Casino: SkyCity Auckland is one of the largest entertainment complexes in New Zealand. It features a wide variety of poker machines and table games. The casino typically operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, providing around-the-clock gaming excitement.

3. Hamilton:

• SkyCity Hamilton Casino: Situated in Hamilton, this casino offers a selection of poker machines and other gaming options. It’s open from 9 AM to 3 AM on weekdays and from 24 hours on weekends.

Benefits of Playing Pokies in New Zealand:

• Entertainment: Playing pokies can be a fun and exciting form of entertainment, offering a chance to unwind and enjoy some leisure time.
• Social Experience: Many pokies venues provide a social atmosphere where you can meet friends, enjoy live entertainment, and have a good time.
• Convenience: With various locations throughout New Zealand, including major cities like Wellington and Auckland, you can easily find a venue near you to play pokies.
• Responsible Gambling: New Zealand promotes responsible gambling, which means venues often have measures in place to encourage safe gaming practices and provide support for those who may need it.

FAQs

Q. Do pokies operate on public holidays in New Zealand?

Ans – The operation of pokies on public holidays can vary by venue. Some venues may have extended hours on public holidays, while others may modify their schedules. It’s advisable to check with the specific venue for their holiday hours.

Q. How can I find out if a specific venue has pokies available today?

Ans – To determine if a particular venue has pokies open on a given day, you can contact the venue directly by phone or check their official website. They will have the most accurate and up-to-date information on their operating status.

Q. Are pokies open today in New Zealand?

Ans – The availability of pokies in New Zealand varies depending on the specific venue, its location, and its operating hours. It’s best to check with the venue directly or visit their website for up-to-date information on their status for the day.

Q. What are the usual opening hours for pokies in New Zealand?

Ans – Opening hours for pokies can differ from one venue to another. However, many venues typically open their gaming areas in the late morning, around 10 AM or 11 AM, and close them around midnight. Some venues may have extended hours on weekends or public holidays.

Q. Can I find pokies in major cities like Auckland and Wellington?

Ans – Yes, major cities in New Zealand, including Auckland and Wellington, have venues that offer poker machines. Popular locations include SkyCity Auckland and SkyCity Wellington Casino.

Conclusion

In New Zealand, people really enjoy playing pokies or slot machines. They’re a top choice for entertainment, and the desire to play these exciting casino games is growing. That’s why folks in New Zealand are searching for places where they can play slots whenever they want.

In this article, I’ve compiled a list of locations where I can find slot machines, along with their operating hours. This information might help you to choose the perfect spot to visit and have a fantastic time spinning the reels.