Why Do Kiwis Love To Play Pokies At Online Casinos?

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The old casinos and bars are a big lure to us New Zealanders, but online casinos are a place we are turning our attention to more and more. The reasons for this are vast, but there are a few main causes that we endeavour to explain today. Here is Why Do Kiwis Love To Play Pokies At Online Casinos?
The online world opened its arms graciously to New Zealand and we took its open arms and immersed ourselves within them. At first, this was for other reasons than online gaming, but today online pokies and other casino games are a major factor for us logging on.
- The reduction in pokies:- Pokies are reducing in numbers and venues housing them are dwindling. This is in part because of the government’s drive not to allow new licences for pokies so there is no growth in this area and as pokies decline they are not being replaced.
- Online Casino availability to New Zealand:- Online Casinos were slow in making but openly available to us. The reasons for this delay in the payment options and the availability of us using them, so technically it wasn’t the casino’s fault. As time progressed, this issue was resolved and now we find that many banking options are open to us and it is a lot easier to simply join and deposit money at a casino to enjoy the wonders of the games available.
- Creature comforts of home:- Being able to play from the comfort of your home is a major pro that many a New Zealander loves. Imagine being able to simply sit in your home clothes on the settee and being able to log on to play some of the best casino games available without other people interrupting your enjoyment.
- Play on the go: Moreover, today all the online casinos and pokies are optimized for mobile gaming. You don’t need to download anything but simply browse the pokies on your mobile browser over the internet and play instant pokies even on the go.
Rise of Online Casino in New Zealand
Online casinos in New Zealand have witnessed a significant rise in popularity in recent years. This surge can be attributed to advancements in technology, providing convenient access to a wide range of gambling platforms. With internet access and smartphones, Kiwis can now enjoy their favourite casino games from anywhere.
One of the key attractions of online casinos is the extensive variety of games available. From pokies to blackjack and roulette, these platforms offer diverse themes and exciting features to cater to every player’s preferences. The convenience of playing from home or on the go has further contributed to their popularity.
Security is a top priority for reputable online casinos. Licensing and regulation ensure the protection of players’ personal and financial information. Fair gaming practices, including random number generators, provide an equal chance of winning for all players.
Attractive bonuses and promotions have also played a significant role in attracting Kiwi players. Welcome packages, free spins, and loyalty programs offer additional value and increased winning opportunities.
Why Kiwis Love To Play Pokies At Online Casinos?
Though from the above-mentioned points you have learned why Kiwis love to play pokies at online casinos, there are still more genuine reasons for it. Kiwis have the best and most legit online casinos to play pokies that offer instant payouts. Certainly, payouts matter the most to punters who love real money gambling. These online casinos that cater specially to Kiwis are:
1. Jackpot City
- 100% deposit bonus of up to $1600
- Supports a range of deposit and withdrawal options
- Consist of more than 600 games to entertain you on the go
- Variety of bonuses
- Live since 1998
Jackpot City Casino NZ is a legit online casino licensed by the government of Malta as a safe and secure gaming platform. It is also approved by eCOGRA therefore safe and one of the best online casino gaming portals available today for Kiwi players.
Next are bonuses and promotions. As a new player, you get a 100% deposit bonus of up to $1600. Thus, if you deposit $400, you will get another$400 as bonus money. This way, if you deposit $400 each in the first four deposits, you get $800 in free money! This would surely boost your chances of winning a big jackpot, as more money translates into better winning opportunities.
Also, Jackpot City Casino offers you an array of exciting daily, weekly, and monthly casino credits and free spins. It also offers you weekly rewards based on your activity for that particular week. They also offer loyalty rewards based on your previous activities and regularity.
Read Review – Jackpot City Casino
2. Royal Vegas
- 100% deposit bonus of up to $1200
- Supports a range of deposit and withdrawal options
- Consist of more than 600 games to entertain you on the go
- Variety of bonuses
- Live since 1998

Royal Vegas Casino NZ like Jackpot City Casino is legit to play. It has been awarded the eCORGA Safe and Fair seal of approval, so players can rest assured that their financial information is secure and the games they play at the online casino are fair. As a reputable online casino, Royal Vegas uses 128-bit SSL digital encryption to protect customers’ online transactions and private information.
Royal Vegas casino has developed a bit of fame for its unique promotions and bonuses. Their $1,200 bonus package is spread out nicely over your deposits so that nearly any player will have the bankroll to cash in on the whole thing.
Even when you aren’t taking down four-figure welcome bonuses, all NZ players can still take part in their four-tiered loyalty program. The levels are Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond but you stand to benefit no matter where you find yourself in the pecking order. As you play more, though, you do go up further in the chain and it becomes even easier to win Royal Vegas player points. Not only do you earn more for your play, but you also take down more for other things like your birthday and monthly loyalty bonuses.
Read Review – Royal Vegas Casino
3. Spin Casino
- 100% deposit bonus of up to $1000
- Supports a range of deposit and withdrawal options
- Consist of more than 800 games to entertain you on the go
- Variety of bonuses
- Live since 1998
This casino like other NZ online casinos has a trusted reputation that players around the globe rely on. Spin Casino too has earned the eCOGRA seal of approval, which affirms their work in ensuring that the site offers fair, responsible gaming and honest business transactions. This means that Spin Casino has proven that games are fair, monetary deposits are safe and the casino operates transparently.
Spin casinos reward players who remain loyal to them. You can become a VIP with frequent play, unlocking additional bonuses and giveaways.
Read Review – Spin Casino NZ
4. Ruby Fortune
- 100% deposit bonus of up to $750
- Supports a range of deposit and withdrawal options
- Consist of more than 500 games to entertain you on the go
- Variety of bonuses
- Live since 1998
Ruby Fortune Casino NZ keeps player information secure by 128-bit SSL encryption technology, so players do not have to worry about their private details or financial information getting into the wrong hands. All transactions are facilitated by Datacash Ltd, one of the premier online cash merchants today. They give customers access to secure e-cash while preventing and detecting potential fraud.
Ruby Fortune Casino is licensed by the Malta Gaming Authority. The casino has also been awarded the eCOGRA seal of approval. This ensures that the games found at Ruby Fortune Casino are fair and customer information is kept secure.
The welcome bonus is potentially worth up to $750 based on your first three deposits.
Read Review – Ruby Fortune Casino
5. SkyCity Online Casino
- 100% Match up to a $100 Bonus + 70 Free Spins
- Supports a range of deposit and withdrawal options
- Variety of bonuses
- Classic pokies, table games, Scratch cards, progressive jackpots, live casino games, etc.
- Regulated by Malta Gaming Authority

The SkyCity Online casino is also legit and licensed and regulated by the Malta Gaming Authority and certified for safety and fairness by eCogra. The casino issues a monthly report showing the average monthly payouts on the various games which is published right on the SkyCity Casino website so you can check this information for yourself. Recent reports have shown the SkyCity Casino payouts to be consistently around 96% for all games combined.
It’s amazing and that’s why Kiwis love to play at these online casinos.
Read Review – SkyCity Online Casino NZ
All the online casinos above are powered by Microgaming software which the Kiwis love. Microgaming pokies have been the favourite pokies for decades in NZ and Mega Moolah the most rewarding pokies have made many millionaires in New Zealand.
Reasons for Why Do Kiwis Love To Play Pokies At Online Casinos?
There are multiple reasons for Why Do Kiwis Love To Play Pokies At Online Casinos. Let’s get to know about them clearly.
- Variety of Games – Online casinos provide Kiwi players with a vast array of pokies to choose from. They can explore different themes, styles, and features, ensuring there is always something exciting and new to try. Whether it’s classic three-reel pokies or modern video slots with immersive graphics and bonus rounds, the variety of games caters to every player’s preferences.
- Convenience and Accessibility – Playing pokies at online casinos offers unmatched convenience and accessibility. Kiwis can enjoy their favourite games from the comfort of their homes, eliminating the need to travel to physical casinos. The 24/7 availability ensures that players can access their preferred pokies at any time, fitting perfectly into their busy schedules.
- Attractive Bonuses and Promotions – Online casinos entice Kiwi players with generous bonuses and promotions. These can include welcome bonuses, free spins, no-deposit bonuses, and loyalty rewards. Such offers provide extra value and enhance the gaming experience, allowing players to extend their playtime and potentially win more.
- Potential for Big Wins – Online pokies present Kiwis with the opportunity to win significant prizes. Many pokies feature progressive jackpots, where the prize pool keeps growing until one lucky player hits the jackpot. The potential for life-changing wins adds an exciting element to the gameplay and attracts Kiwis who dream of hitting it big.
- Safe and Secure Environment – Reputable online casinos prioritize player safety and ensure a secure gaming environment. They use advanced encryption technology to protect players’ personal and financial information, giving Kiwis peace of mind when making deposits, playing games, and withdrawing their winnings.
- Social Aspect – Online casinos often incorporate social features, such as chat rooms or interactive gameplay, fostering a sense of community among Kiwi players. They can connect with fellow pokies enthusiasts, share strategies, and celebrate wins together, creating a social aspect even in the online gaming realm.
What Are Some of The Great Features of Online Casinos?
1. Great Games In NZD
Online casinos offer a great variety of games to play in real money NZD or for free. You can enjoy pokies which are the most popular games online with dozens of themes and features. Online pokies have several reels, with symbols that match according to certain ‘lines.’ The more matches a player makes, the more money they stand to win. Additionally, these NZ online pokies can feature a progressive jackpot, which stacks up matches for huge wins.
Then you can enjoy table games like Blackjack of many variants, Roulette including American and European Roulette, Baccarat, craps, and other table games. Poker games are there with great variety, lottery games like Keno, Scratch cards, and bingo. Also now online casinos offer sports betting and stock options as well. Some of the best online casino games are developed by software providers like Microgaming, NetEnt, Evolution Gaming, Playtech, and Play’N GO. These game developers present award-winning titles with all kinds of innovative features like bonus games, free spins, and other mega and huge jackpots.
2. Generous Bonus Offers

Online casinos offer Kiwis more fun when they have generous bonuses to offer to all the punters irrespective of whether they are a low stake player or high rollers. Some of the popular bonuses offered are:
- The welcome bonus is the first bonus a NZ player will receive as a new player. Welcome bonuses should include free spins and extra casino credits in the form of match bonuses or no-deposit bonuses.
- Loyalty bonus is offered once Kiwis get going on the best online casinos in New Zealand, there needs to be a loyalty program to give their bankroll a boost. These bonuses are often known as VIP bonuses.
- Deposit Match Bonus is a common bonus at online New Zealand casinos, and will typically add a portion of your deposit to your bankroll for free.
- Free Spins are probably the best bonus to receive, as they give Kiwis a few free spins on top online pokies. Typically, these will be included in a welcome bonus and regular rewards.
Also, there are various other promotions and rewards to grab. Note that you need to check the terms and conditions before you redeem such bonuses as they have often strings attached to them like wagering requirements or a minimum deposit to make before getting started.
3. Safe and Secure Deposits
When playing real money pokies you need to make a deposit to place real money bets. The online casinos offer New Zealand-friendly deposit options like VISA, Instadebit, Skrill, Paypal, wire transfer, and others. You simply go to NZ online cashier or banking tab to fund your casino account in your own currency.
As security is a key aspect of online casinos, Kiwi gamblers are completely safe. This means using top-shelf encryption technology and protocols, online casinos have your personal information safe and all transactions completely secure.
4. 24/7 customer support

Kiwis want a hassle-free gaming experience and for that online casinos offer them 24/7 customer support in a friendly environment. There are multiple contact methods with good response times Live Chat and toll-free phone lines. Kiwi players can know the latest bonus offers from them, know how to get started, make a deposit, or any other gaming-related queries you wish to ask.
Are online casinos legal for Kiwis?
The online casinos for Kiwis are legal casinos to play as they are regulated and licensed by the legal gambling commission. It is perfectly legal to gamble online in New Zealand under the 2003 Gambling Act, provided that the website is based overseas. So feel free to enjoy all the best New Zealand online casino gambling sites the world has to offer. Safe in the knowledge that no Kiwi player has ever been prosecuted. More so, you are not doing anything against the law. This is why Kiwis love to play pokies at online casinos.
Online casinos are here to stay and promise to keep delivering great enjoyment to New Zealand.
Conclusion
The popularity of online pokies among Kiwis can be attributed to convenience, variety, bonuses, safety, and social aspects. The accessibility and 24/7 availability of online casinos provide a convenient way for Kiwis to enjoy their favourite pokies from the comfort of their homes. The wide range of pokies options, high-quality graphics, and immersive gameplay add to the allure. Enticing bonuses and promotions further enhance the experience, while strict regulations ensure a safe and secure environment. The social aspect, including multiplayer options and virtual tournaments, fosters a sense of community. Overall, these factors contribute to the love Kiwis have for playing pokies at online casinos.