Best 10 Pubs to Play Pokies in Christchurch

Here are the best 10 places to play pokies in Christchurch.
Best pubs with pokies in Christchurch

Christchurch had a pretty diverse and long affair with the games of luck and chance. While some governments of the past were supportive of gambling, others imposed all kinds of restrictions on any such activities.

Currently, gambling is sufficiently and fairly regulated in the country, with all major forms of gambling, including casinos, sportsbooks, lotteries, etc., legally operational. Here we will talk about the best pokies in Christchurch.

There are many land-based pokies in Christchurch, and the ones that are there focus heavily on their quality rather than quantity, offering an amazing experience for the players.

Here are the Best 10 Places to Play Pokies in Christchurch

1. Christchurch Casino

Christchurch Casino
Christchurch Casino

This casino is a top choice when you explore the Garden City. It’s where New Zealand’s first casino was born and is nestled in the city’s vibrant heart.

You will find here:

  • 500 gaming machines
  • 36 table games
  • Four restaurants and bars
  • Live entertainment
  • Dedicated poker, baccarat, and e-sports lounges
  • Exclusive prizes and promotions
  • Onsite – car and campervan car parking

You can play blackjack, American roulette, baccarat, and gaming machines. It is open 24 hours over the weekend and until 3 am Monday to Thursday, there are four restaurant and bar areas. You will find many eating corners to dine and relax in the casino which includes The Grand Cafe, Chi Kitchen, Mashina, and the Monza Sports Bar.

Addington Raceway

This is the home of the New Zealand Metropolitan Trotting Club, Spectators Bar, and Bistro, the Christchurch Casino NZ Trotting Cup, and one of Christchurch’s leading event & conference centers.

Contact Details

For inquiries and assistance, you can reach Christchurch Casino at the following contact number: +64 3 365 9999.

Operating Hours:

  • Monday: 1:00 PM – 11:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 1:00 PM – 11:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 1:00 PM – 11:00 PM
  • Thursday: 1:00 PM – 11:00 PM
  • Friday: 1:00 PM – 2:00 AM
  • Saturday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM
  • Sunday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Address: Christchurch Casino is conveniently located at 30 Victoria Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand. It’s situated right across from the popular Asian restaurant, Aroy Thai.

2. Xtreme Entertainment

Xtreme Entertainment
Xtreme Entertainment

This is the most popular entertainment venue for children and adults of all ages is Xtreme Entertainment in Botany Downs. You can play ten-pin bowling, pokies gaming, Timezone arcade games, a bar, and great eats.

Located at 500A, Ti Rakau Drive, Botany Downs in Auckland, New Zealand some of the landmarks in the area are Countdown Botany Downs, Kmart, McDonald’s, Bunnings Warehouse Botany, and Botany Town Centre.

Here you can have loads of entertainment in the form of Timezone games, pinball machines, laser zone, tenpin bowling, a pokies gaming lounge, a cafe, and a bar. It is a popular venue for meeting after work, entertainment, or hire for the venue for functions.

Pokies and Gaming

This venue has 9 cracker pokies machines games for players to enjoy, it’s a very popular place in Botany Downs, Auckland for some pokies gaming fun. Genuine pokie machines are located in dedicated R18 sections within the Auckland establishments, specifically at the Xtreme Entertainment locations situated at Target Court in Glenfield and at the Botany Town Centre.

Address and Contact Details

For an exhilarating entertainment experience, visit Xtreme Entertainment located at:

500A Ti Rakau Dr, Botany Downs, Auckland 2013, New Zealand.

To inquire about bookings, events, or any other information, you can contact Xtreme Entertainment at:

Phone: 09-272 0333.

Operating Hours: Open every day from 10:00 AM till late, Xtreme Entertainment is the perfect destination for a fun-filled day or evening out.

Whether you’re seeking thrilling activities, engaging games, or a vibrant atmosphere, Xtreme Entertainment in Botany offers it all. Don’t hesitate to reach out or pay a visit for an unforgettable entertainment experience that caters to all ages and preferences.

3. Armadillos Restaurant

Armadillos Restaurant
Armadillos Restaurant

The restaurant chain has outlets elsewhere on South Island like Motueka, Blenheim, Nelson, Greymouth, Christchurch, and Timaru.

Pokies at Armadillos Restaurant Belfast

It has a great selection of 18 of the most loved New Zealand player pokies machines to enjoy.

Address and Contact Details

Indulge in a delightful dining experience at Armadillos Restaurant, located at:

670 Main South Road, Islington, Christchurch 8042, New Zealand.

For reservations, inquiries, or more information, feel free to contact Armadillos Restaurant at:

Phone: 03 349 7337.

Opening Hours: Plan your visit accordingly as Armadillos Restaurant welcomes you:

  • Monday to Sunday: 11:00 AM – 09:00 PM (except Wednesday and Thursday, which have extended hours).

Whether you’re seeking a scrumptious lunch, a delectable dinner, or a memorable dining experience, Armadillos Restaurant offers a diverse menu and warm ambience.

4. Whistle Sports Bar 

Whistle Sports Bar
Whistle Sports Bar

You will find eighteen pokie gaming machines installed at the bar. Texas Holdem Poker is played every Tuesday night from 7 pm onward.

There are pool tables available for customers who enjoy playing pool games. Customers can play free pool on Sunday. A Joker poker draw is held on every Thursday so make sure you pop in for that. A meat raffle draw is held on Thursday and Friday.

Pokies & TAB Gaming

The Final Whistle Sports Bar Christchurch has a great selection of 18 of the most loved New Zealand player pokies machines to enjoy.

Address and Contact Details

Experience the ultimate sports atmosphere at The Final Whistle Sports Bar, conveniently located at:

77 Stevens St, Waltham, Christchurch 8011.

For any inquiries, reservations, or more information, you can contact The Final Whistle Sports Bar at:

Phone: 3-261 4167.

Operating Hours: Join us for sports excitement and great times any day of the week, as we are open:

7 days, from early till late.

Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or seeking a vibrant social setting, The Final Whistle Sports Bar provides an immersive experience.

5. Embankment Tavern Christchurch

Embankment Tavern Christchurch Guide
Embankment Tavern Christchurch Guide

It is a popular pub and local hangout in Christchurch for a few drinks, live entertainment, sports watching, TAB bets, and some pokies gaming action.

One of the popular features of the pub is the jukebox which allows you to listen to your favourite music and songs. The jukebox is often free, especially early in the morning. The pub has a stage, and weekly a karaoke night is held.

You can enjoy the music and other entertainment facilities at the pub like the jukebox and karaoke. Embankment Tavern is a great place to have a social get-together, meet old friends and make new friends. Customers are also happy with the staff service, and many are regular visitors.

Pokies and TAB Gaming at Embankment Tavern, Christchurch

It is a popular sports bar with a pokies gaming lounge and pool tables. The bar is located at 77, Stevens Street in the Waltham area of Christchurch in New Zealand.

Address and Contact Details

Discover the inviting atmosphere of Embankment Tavern, situated at:

181 Ferry Road, Phillipstown, Christchurch.

To get in touch, inquire about events, or learn more, you can reach Embankment Tavern at:

Phone: +64 3 379 3760.

Stay connected and stay updated by visiting Embankment Tavern’s Facebook page:

Embankment Tavern Facebook Page

With a welcoming ambience and a range of offerings, Embankment Tavern is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy. Whether you’re seeking a great meal, a refreshing drink, or a social gathering, our venue has something for everyone.

6. Robbie’s Bar Riccarton

Robbie’s Bar Riccarton
Robbie’s Bar Riccarton

It is one of the most popular sports bars with a pokies gaming lounge in Christchurch, it is a FAB function venue. The bar is located at 87, Riccarton Road in the Riccarton area of Christchurch.

Best Sports Bars in Christchurch

The sports bar has 21 different television screens so that you can watch whichever sports match you are interested in. There are also 18 poker gaming machines installed at the bar for you if you enjoy playing pokies machines from the likes of Aristocrat. Live music is also offered on select days. Customers can pay for things using Alipay or most credit cards and good old kiwi cash.

Pokies and TAB Gaming at Robbie’s Bar in Riccarton

You will find a great selection of 18 of the most loved New Zealand player pokies machines.

Address and Contact Details

Experience the lively atmosphere of Robbie’s Riccarton Sports Bar & Restaurant, conveniently located at:

87 Riccarton Rd, Riccarton, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand.

For inquiries, reservations, or more information, you can contact Robbie’s Riccarton Sports Bar & Restaurant at:

Phone: 3-343 0567.

Operating Hours: Join us for a vibrant dining and entertainment experience any day of the week, as we are open:

7 days, from early morning till 11:00 PM.

Don’t miss out on the fun during our Happy Hour from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM every day. It’s the perfect time to enjoy great deals and a fantastic atmosphere.

7. Celtic Arms Inn Spreydon, Christchurch

Celtic Arms Inn Spreydon, Christchurch
Celtic Arms Inn Spreydon, Christchurch

The Celtic Arms Inn is one of the finest places in Christchurch for sports watching, a few drinks, eats, and some pokies gaming excitement.

Some local landmarks near Celtic Arms Inn Spreydon are Canterbury SCL – Selwyn Street, 319 Addington Motel, Selwyn Fish Supply, Selwyn Village Physiotherapy, and Australis Medical.

The rugby matches featuring the New Zealand national team the All Blacks and other rugby-playing countries are very popular. You can also watch UFC, Cricket, NRL, and Tennis matches. are also watched by many here. You can also play pool at the pool tables, and a pool competition is also held so get involved with this if you get the chance. There is a darts board, and customers can enjoy playing darts in the company of other customers and participate in competitions.

Entertainment Options

As the pub is also a gaming lounge venue, there are a number of New Zealand’s most popular gaming machines installed where customers can play the pokies in great surroundings. These are popular with punters who may not be interested in watching sports matches.

The pub has a jukebox and customers can listen to their favourite music as they wish. Karaoke night is held at the pub on alternate Fridays and is managed by Mickey Rat, the resident expert. You can also show off your singing skills, and also listen to other performers at the pub, this event is quite popular among customers.

The pub is extremely popular among the locals in the area since it has a friendly atmosphere. It is a good place to meet new people and make new friends. Customers who have hired the pub for functions are happy with the service, and food served.

Pokies and TAB Gaming at Celtic Arms Inn Christchurch

You will find a great selection of 18 of the must-play New Zealand player pokies machines to enjoy in sunny Spreydon, Christchurch.

Address and Contact Details

Discover the welcoming ambience of Celtic Arms Inn, located at:

308 Selwyn St, Spreydon, Christchurch 8024, New Zealand.

For inquiries, reservations, or more information, you can contact Celtic Arms Inn at:

Phone: 3-982 1811.

Operating Hours: Experience the warm hospitality and great times any day of the week, as we are open:

7 days, from early until late.

Whether you’re seeking a delightful meal, a cosy drink, or a convivial gathering spot, Celtic Arms Inn offers a charming destination.

8. The Highway Inn Christchurch

The Highway Inn Christchurch
The Highway Inn Christchurch

It is a 3-star truck stop budget hotel with basic rooms, a bar, and pokies gaming just a 4-minute drive from Christchurch Airport right near the intersection of Johns Road and Sawyers Arms Road. It offers some good local access to interesting places in the neighbouring area around it.

Some local landmarks are Highway 1, Sawyers Arms Reserve, Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, North-South Holiday Park, and the Action Kart Raceway.

It is located at 527 Sawyers Arms Rd in Christchurch New Zealand. There is a wonderful hotel called the Highway Inn. If you ever find yourself visiting New Zealand and are in the Christchurch area, then this is the perfect place to stay on the cheap.

Pokies and TAB Gaming

The Highway Inn Christchurch has a small selection of 4 pokies machines to play.

Address and Contact Details

Discover the inviting ambience of Highway Inn, situated at:

527 Sawyers Arms Rd, Harewood, Christchurch 8051, New Zealand.

For inquiries, reservations, or more information, you can reach Highway Inn at:

Phone: 3-359 6507.

Operating Hours: Experience the warm hospitality and vibrant atmosphere any day of the week, as we are open:

7 days, from early morning until late.

9. Horse & Jockey Christchurch

Horse & Jockey Christchurch
Horse & Jockey Christchurch

Although it is relatively a newer jockey that started in 2017, the Horse & Jockey has become extremely popular among racing fans due to the facilities it offers. The sports bar also has pokies machines and is located at 8, Yaldhurst Road in the Upper Riccarton area of Christchurch in New Zealand.

About the Horse & Jockey Christchurch

The sports bar has a number of television screens installed so that customers can watch their favorite sports teams and players in action in addition to horse races and greyhound races. Football, rugby, NRL, UFC, V8 Supercars, boxing matches, horse races, and more are shown on the TVs at the bar.

Pokies and TAB Gaming at Horse & Jockey Christchurch

It has 18 amazing poker machine games to enjoy. It is one of the best 10 pubs with pokies in Christchurch. It’s a must-visit local New Zealand pokies gaming and TAB lounge venue for some excitement in the Upper Riccarton, Christchurch area. You can play all the best Aristocrat pokies machines and they have all the latest Lightning Link pokies games to have a crack on.

Address and Contact Details

Experience the inviting atmosphere of Horse and Jockey, conveniently located at:

8 Yaldhurst Rd, Upper Riccarton, Christchurch 8041.

For inquiries, reservations, or more information, you can contact Horse and Jockey at:

Phone: 0800 813 813.

Operating Hours: Join us for a delightful dining and social experience any day of the week, as we are open:

7 days, from early morning till late.

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10. Islington Tavern Christchurch

. Islington Tavern Christchurch Guide -Best 10 Places to Play Pokies in Christchurch
. Islington Tavern Christchurch Guide

This Tavern, also known as the Swamp, is a popular local hangout in Christchurch for a few drinks, sports watching, or some pokies gaming. It is located at 670, Main South Road in the Islington area of Christchurch.

Since it is also a bottle store, it is able to offer beer, wines, spirits, and other drinks to its customers at extremely low rates. It is also holding at times a wholesaler’s liquidation sale for beers and wine so that the customers can get beer, and wine at the lowest rates in town.

In the area, the pub remains extremely popular for its sports facilities. It has a large number of televisions all over the bar so that customers can watch their favorite races and other sporting events in comfy surroundings.

For each major horse racing event, you can pick your winners, and make some money if you choose the right horse. The pub also has complete TAB facilities, so that customers can place bets on their favourite horses for the races. It is one of the best 10 bars with pokies in Christchurch. There are gaming machines installed for customers who like a game of pokies. A super Karaoke facility is also available for music-singing lovers.

Interesting read:

Pokies and TAB Gaming at Islington Tavern Christchurch

It has 18 of the best Kiwi poker machine games for customers, it’s a go-to local New Zealand pokies gaming and TAB lounge venue for some excitement in the Islington, Christchurch area. This is one of the best gaming lounges near me open n Christchurch.

Address and Contact Details

Discover the welcoming ambiance of Islington Tavern, located at:

670 Main S Rd, Islington, Christchurch 8042.

For inquiries, reservations, or more information, you can contact Islington Tavern at:

Phone: 3-349 7337.

Operating Hours: Experience the vibrant atmosphere and great times any day of the week, as we are open:

7 days, starting around 10:00 AM until late.

Read: Best 6 Pubs to Play Pokies in Nelson City

FAQs

1. Are these pubs suitable for both novices and experienced players?

Absolutely, these pubs cater to a diverse spectrum of players, spanning from newcomers to seasoned gamblers.

2. Apart from pokies, do these pubs provide alternative entertainment choices?

Many of these establishments offer a variety of entertainment avenues, such as live music, sports broadcasts, and more.

3. Is there a specific dress code for engaging in pokies at these pubs?

Most of these venues maintain an informal dress code, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere for enjoying pokies.

4. Can I relish food and drinks while engaging in pokies at these pubs?

Yes, many of these pubs offer an array of dining and beverage selections for your enjoyment during play.

5. Is there a minimum age requirement to partake in pokies at these pubs?

Certainly, generally, you need to be 18 years or older to participate in pokies or access the gaming sections of these pubs.

6. Are pokies legal in Christchurch, New Zealand?

Yes, pokies are legal in Christchurch and throughout New Zealand, as long as they are operated by licensed venues and adhere to regulatory requirements set by the Department of Internal Affairs.

7. What makes a pub a good place to play pokies?

A good pub for playing pokies offers a welcoming atmosphere, a variety of pokie machines, well-maintained equipment, reasonable payout percentages, and responsible gambling practices.

8. What are the best pubs in Christchurch to play pokies?

Some of the best pubs to play pokies in Christchurch include The Woolston Club, The Craic Irish Bar, The Papanui Club, The Wave Bar, The Oaks of Darfield, and The Fitz.

9. What types of pokies are usually available in these pubs?

These pubs typically offer a range of pokie machines, including traditional three-reel slots, video slots with various themes, and sometimes even progressive jackpot pokies with the potential for larger prizes.

10. Do these pubs offer other entertainment besides pokies?

Yes, many of these pubs offer additional entertainment options such as live music, sports viewing, and dining facilities, creating a well-rounded entertainment experience.

11. How can I find the best pub for playing pokies in Christchurch?

Research online reviews, ask locals for recommendations, and visit the official websites of the pubs mentioned to learn more about their pokie offerings and overall ambiance.

12. Is there a minimum age to play pokies in these pubs?

Yes, you must be at least 18 years old to play pokies in New Zealand, including in pubs. This age restriction is strictly enforced.

13. Can I play pokies for free in these pubs?

Pokies in pubs require real money bets to play, and there’s no option to play for free like in some online casinos. You’ll need to insert money into the machine to start playing.

14. Are there any strategies to increase my chances of winning on pokies?

Pokies outcomes are based on random number generators, making them games of chance. There’s no guaranteed strategy to win on pokies. However, you can manage your bankroll, set limits, and play responsibly to enjoy the experience.

15. Can I get food and drinks while playing pokies in these pubs?

Yes, many of these pubs offer food and drinks to enhance your gaming experience. You can enjoy a meal or a drink while trying your luck on the pokie machine.

Conclusion

In the dynamic city of Christchurch, the journey to discover the best 10 pubs for pokies comes alive with a fusion of excitement, entertainment, and diverse gaming opportunities. From newcomers stepping into the gaming world to seasoned players seeking their next triumph, these pubs cater to every level of expertise.

Beyond the realm of pokies, these venues unveil a medley of entertainment options, crafting an immersive atmosphere that appeals to all. With relaxed dress codes, tantalizing food and drinks, and an age-friendly environment, these pubs curate an inviting setting for unforgettable gaming moments.

So, whether you’re yearning for the thrill of the spinning reels or a remarkable night out, these top 10 pubs in Christchurch promise an interactive blend of entertainment and gaming gratification.

Your journey to gaming excellence starts here – explore, play, and revel in the pokies magic!

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Mamta Sharma

Mamta is a spirited writer hailing from Wellington, bringing a youthful zest to the world of digital content. Merging her love for narrative with an eye for detail, Ella crafts stories that resonate and engage the modern reader.