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Updated: 19 November 2024

Online pokies NZ – Best online pokies sites to play for real money in New Zealand

Because there are more online casinos now, gamblers in New Zealand can play lots of fun games called pokies on different websites. These titles let you win real money, and many sites give you special rewards and exciting experiences while you gamble. This easy guide from SmartPokies will help you learn all about playing online pokies in New Zealand, like how to pick the best websites and what kinds of games and rewards you can find.

Best New Zealand online pokies sites in November 2024

DISCLAIMER: 18+ only
There are many risks involved when it comes to gambling. We advise our players to gamble responsibly and ONLY use the funds that you can afford to lose. Please remember that gambling is intended for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as a way to solve your financial issues.

Top 10 real money pokies in New Zealand

Picking the best pokies can really change how much fun you have when playing online. There are lots of different pokies to choose from, but some are more exciting than others because they have cool features and good chances to win, and Kiwis really enjoy them. Here are the 10 top pokies that gamblers in New Zealand like the most. 

  • Sweet Bonanza (RTP: 96.51%)

    Sweet Bonanza (RTP: 96.51%)

    Sweet Bonanza is a top-notch candy-themed machine made by Pragmatic Play. It has bright colours and pays out anywhere on the reels. When you spin, candy icons can fall down and create lots of winning combinations all at once. There’s also a special Free Spins round where you can keep multiplying your wins! 

  • Starburst (RTP: 96.09%)

    Starburst (RTP: 96.09%)

    Starburst is a super popular online game made by NetEnt. It's loved by many players from New Zealand because it's easy to play and has fun surprises like special symbols that can help you win more. The game looks really cool with bright colours and a space theme. Even though it doesn't have a special Free Spins round, people enjoy playing it because they win little prizes frequently due to its low volatility nature.

  • Book of Dead (RTP: 96.21%)

    Book of Dead (RTP: 96.21%)

    The Book of Dead is a game from Play’n GO that takes you on an exciting journey to ancient Egypt. There are special symbols that can grow bigger and help you win more money, especially during Free Spins. Lots of gamblers really like this game because it can give you big prizes. So, basically, it can become a favourite for Kiwis who like to risk for a chance to win big money at the best online casino!

  • Aviator (RTP: 97.00%)

    Aviator (RTP: 97.00%)

    Aviator is a crash-style game that offers a different type of gameplay compared to traditional pokies. Instead of spinning reels, players place bets on a plane that ascends with a growing multiplier. The key is to cash out before the plane crashes, adding an element of tension and excitement. This game has quickly gained popularity in New Zealand for its simple mechanics and the thrill of high-stakes, rapid gameplay.

  • Sugar Rush 1000 (RTP: 95.50%)

    Sugar Rush 1000 (RTP: 95.50%)

    A fun candy-themed slot machine, Sugar Rush 1000 uses cluster pays as an alternative to standard paylines. Multiple wins on a single spin are possible with cascading reels, which are triggered by winning combos. This slot machine has lively graphics and music that make it quite entertaining. Although the game's RTP may not be as high as that of some other slots, many players will find it to be worthwhile because of the possibility of multipliers and cascading wins.

  • Gonzo’s Quest (RTP: 96.00%)

    Gonzo’s Quest (RTP: 96.00%)

    Gonzo’s Quest is a game by NetEnt, where you go on an exciting adventure in a jungle in South America, looking for hidden treasures. One cool thing about it is that when you win, you can keep winning more and more times in a row, and your prizes get bigger each time. 

  • Wanted Dead or a Wild (RTP: 96.00%)

    Wanted Dead or a Wild (RTP: 96.00%)

    This Wild West-themed slot from Hacksaw Gaming offers plenty of excitement with its shootouts, free spins on pokies, and multipliers. Players who like immersive, dramatic pokies will find the game appealing due to its interesting mechanics and design. Wanted Dead or a Wild has become one of the most popular pokies in New Zealand thanks to its Free Spins feature and huge win potential.

  • Big Bass Splash (RTP: 96.71%)

    Big Bass Splash (RTP: 96.71%)

    Big Bass Splash is a fishing-themed slot where players cast their lines in hopes of reeling in big wins. The Free Spins feature is particularly lucrative, with the opportunity to catch fish symbols that award cash prizes. The game’s high RTP and engaging mechanics make it a favourite among players who enjoy themed slots with generous bonus features.

  • Legacy of Dead (RTP: 96.50%)

    Legacy of Dead (RTP: 96.50%)

    Legacy of Dead is a quite new game from Play’n GO that continues the fun of another game called Book of Dead. It is all about ancient Egypt and has special features like expanding symbols. You can triumph during the Free Spins round, but it can also be a bit tricky, so you might need to wait a while and have enough money to play.

  • Gates of Olympus (RTP: 96.50%)

    Gates of Olympus (RTP: 96.50%)

    Gates of Olympus is an exciting game that takes ideas from Greek myths. Here, when you get winning symbols, they go away and new ones drop in to take their place. This game also has special features called multipliers that can help you win even more money, both when you’re playing normally and during Free Spins. The mix of symbols disappearing and big win boosts makes Gates of Olympus really interesting to play!

Best bonuses for real money pokies:

When you play online pokies real money NZ, one of the best ways to win more is by using the special rewards that the best online casino platforms give you. These perks can be extra money, free spins, or other cool rewards. Let’s look at the different kinds of offers you can find at the best pokies websites in New Zealand!

  1. Welcome bonus

    When you join an online NZ casino, it often gives you a special gift called a welcome bonus to encourage you to play. This bonus usually means that if you put in some money, the casino will give you extra money to use. For example, if you put in NZ$500, the casino might double it, so you would have NZ$1,000 to play games with. Sometimes, online casinos also give you free spins for certain games. These bonuses help you have more fun and try out new games, but it’s important to understand the rules about how you can use them before you start wagering.

  2. Deposit bonus

    A deposit bonus is like a special gift from NZ online gambling websites. They give this offer to new players or to keep gamblers they already have. When someone puts money into their account for the first time, the website might add extra money, kind of like a match. This means users have more money when they want to play games or make bets!

  3. Free spins

    Free spins give you the opportunity to turn on a game without having to spend your own money. They are often given to new players as a special gift or during special events. But remember, sometimes you need to play a little more before you can take your winnings out.

  4. No deposit bonus

    No deposit bonuses are really popular with players at online casinos in New Zealand because they let you try to win real money without having to spend any of your own. These rewards are usually smaller than the ones you get when you do put in money, but they let you play games and have fun for free. Even though you might need to play a little more to take out your winnings, it’s a safe way to see if you can win some real cash without any risk!

  5. Referral bonuses

    Referral bonuses are a fun way to earn some extra money by telling your friends about your favourite online casino with the best online pokies NZ. Many gambling sites have special programs that give you a reward every time you invite a friend who signs up and puts money into their account. This means you get a little something for yourself, and it also helps more people join in on the fun, making the gaming community bigger and better!

How we pick the best NZ pokies sites

Choosing the best pokies websites in New Zealand means looking at a few important things to make sure you have fun and stay safe while wagering. We check a lot of different factors, like how secure the site is, if you can find the most popular online pokies in new casinos, what fun prizes are offered, and how well the platform helps you if you have problems. Here’s a closer look at how we find the best online pokies sites in New Zealand:

  • Safety and security

    When gamblers play games online for real money, it's really important to stay safe. We only suggest websites that have special licences from trusted bodies, like the Malta Gaming Authority, the UK Gambling Commission, or the Curacao eGaming Authority. These licences mean that the websites follow important rules to keep pokies players safe. We also verify that these online casinos to play that we recommend use strong security methods to protect your personal and money information.

  • Slots variety

    The best places to play popular NZ online pokies should have lots of different titles. We look for sites that have all kinds of pokies, like the old-fashioned 3-reel games, the newer 5-reel video pokies, big jackpot titles, including progressive online pokies, and gaming options with special ways to win called Megaways. This way, players can always find something fun and new to play, whether they like simple games or more complicated ones.

  • Bonuses and promotions

    We are doing our best to help players find the finest websites, and promotions and bonuses are necessary to improve the online gaming experience, so we pay attention to them as well. We assess the incentives that each casino offers, including sign-up bonuses, deposit bonuses, free spins, and loyalty programs. Our priorities are openness and equity, making sure that the wagering requirements are unambiguously expressed and that the bonuses offer gamblers actual value.

  • Mobile experience

    With more New Zealand casino players choosing to gamble on their smartphones and tablets, we should pay attention to real money casinos’ mobile-friendliness. We check whether the best NZ online platforms have a responsive mobile website or even an app; we then try out games for ourselves on several devices. Thus, a solid mobile experience enables players to join their favourite pokies anywhere and at any time, without losing the quality or functionality in any aspect.

  • Customer support

    Reliable customer service is essential for an enjoyable online gaming environment if you want to enjoy pokies online in New Zealand. We evaluate each casino's level of customer service, looking for those that provide round-the-clock assistance via phone, email, or live chat. For any problems you may run into, prompt reaction times and friendly, informed support staff are crucial.

  • Licensing

    A credible online pokie casino should be completely licensed and regulated by a known authority, such as the Malta Gaming Authority, the UK Gambling Commission, or the Australian Communications and Media Authority. Strict guidelines are enforced on casinos, and licensed casinos are subject to routine audits to ensure fair play, which include randomness testing and dependable and consistent payouts. 

Top online pokies casinos

New Zealand has lots of cool casinos where you can play pokies online. These websites have many different titles, offer top-notch rewards, and are easy to use, so both newbies and those who have played before can have fun. Here are some of the best places to check out for your next online pokie adventure!

  • Spinbet - Best for new online pokies 2024

    Spinbet - Best for new online pokies 2024

    Spinbet is a great place for all Kiwis who love to play online games. They have a lot of new titles coming out all the time, so there's always something fun to try. The website is easy to use, whether you're on a computer or a phone, so you can find what you want without any trouble. Plus, if you are in search of top online pokies in new casinos, Spinbet has cool suitable offers (for example, the ability to get 25 free spins every Wednesday) that give players extra rewards and reasons to play more.

  • Jackpot City - Play online pokies for real money and receive winnings instantly

    Jackpot City - Play online pokies for real money and receive winnings instantly

    Jackpot City is a place where Kiwis can play games and win money really quickly! They have more than 500 different titles to choose from, which makes it super exciting. When new gamblers join, they get a special bonus (up to NZ$1,600) to help them start playing. There are also lots of cool offers to keep the fun going. Moreover, if anyone needs help, there are friendly staff members ready to assist all day and night!

  • Ruby Fortune - Biggest collection of online slots

    Ruby Fortune - Biggest collection of online slots

    Ruby Fortune is a reliable online casino in New Zealand that has more than 600 different online pokies available that you can play, like classic pokies with fruit symbols and new video titles. You can even play on your phone with their easy mobile-optimised casino site! They also have a special loyalty program that gives rewards to NZ players who keep playing, which makes many Kiwis really happy.

  • Wildz - Juiciest online pokies bonuses

    Wildz - Juiciest online pokies bonuses

    Wildz started in 2019 and is famous for giving out really great rewards when people join. New players get a special welcome bonus (NZ$1,000 + 200 free spins), and there are fun surprises for players who keep coming back. They also make it easy for gamblers to get their money quickly when they win, so everyone can enjoy their prizes right away!

  • Royal Vegas - Smoothest online casino game experience

    Royal Vegas - Smoothest online casino game experience

    Royal Vegas Casino has nice graphics and lots of different games, especially pokies. When you first join, you get a special reward (up to NZ$1,200 deposit bonus), which is like a gift to help you start getting on. You can also put money in and take it out in many ways. Kiwis really like Royal Vegas because they make sure everyone is happy!

Popular types of online pokies in New Zealand

There are several variations of online pokies in NZ to cater to different tastes. These will surely offer something to all gamblers.

Classic Slots (3-Reel Slots)

The most basic type of slots are the classic slots, sometimes known as 3-reel pokies. Typically, they have three reels, one or more paylines, and standard symbols such as bars, sevens, and fruits. Classic slots are ideal for anyone who enjoys the nostalgic vibe of vintage slot machines.

Video Slots (5-Reel Slots)

Video slots usually have five spinning wheels, and you can find many different stories and themes in them, like pirates or space adventures. These titles have special things like wild symbols that can help you win, scatter symbols that can give you extra chances, free spins where you can play without using your funds, and cool bonus rounds where you can benefit even more! 

Progressive Jackpot Pokies

Progressive Jackpot pokies come with the possibility of changing your life because the jackpot keeps on growing until it has been won. Some of these titles have the potential to reach into the millions, which is one of the main reasons these games are extremely popular among players who hunt big payouts. Examples of progressive pokies include Mega Moolah and Major Millions.

Megaways Slots

Megaways slots are special games where the number of pictures on each spinning wheel changes every time you play. This means there are lots and lots of ways to win! Because the game is always different, it keeps things exciting and fun. These slots can be really exciting, that's why many people enjoy playing them!

Branded or Themed Slots

For players who enjoy the original content, branded slots offer an engaging experience because they are based on well-known films, TV series, or celebrities. These pokies provide an additional degree of immersion by frequently including quotes or allusions from the original work. Branded slots are popular among players who want themed entertainment because they blend well-known characters and plots with exciting gameplay elements.

Mobile pokies – play where YOU are

Playing games on your phone has changed how gamblers in New Zealand enjoy online pokies. Whether you're on a bus, waiting for a doctor, or just chilling at home, mobile pokies let you play whenever you want. 

Almost every modern online casino offers special mobile-optimised websites or apps for smartphones and tablets, so all games work really well. When you try out mobile slots, it's important to have a good Internet connection because the games need it to run smoothly. Plus, you should know that a number of platforms give special bonuses for playing on your mobile device, which makes the games even more fun and exciting!

Free pokies vs real money online pokies

Players have a choice between real money and free pokies, each with pros and cons of their own. All Kiwis can make informed decisions depending on their preferences and risk tolerance by being aware of these variances.

Free pokies pros and cons

  • Pros
  • Playing without risking money
  • Developing strategies and learning game mechanics are possible
  • Testing different games before wagering real money
  • Cons
  • Winnings can't be cashed out
  • Absence of bonus rounds or special features
  • No emotional stakes

Real money NZ pokies pros and cons

  • Pros
  • Exciting chance to win cash prizes
  • Special promotions enhance the experience
  • Extra features and bonuses in real money games
  • Cons
  • Risk of losing money; requires careful bankroll management
  • Privacy concerns when sharing personal and financial details
  • Potential for irresponsible gambling behaviour

Expert tips for winning at online pokies games

Online pokies are games of chance at the best real money casinos, but you may use a few methods to increase your chances of winning and get the most out of it. Here are some tips to remember:

  1. Try out different casinos

    Each casino offers different bonuses, games, and payout rates, so don’t limit yourself to just one platform. Explore multiple platforms to find the one that offers the best combination of features for your needs.

  2. Take advantage of free spins and bonuses

    Bonuses and free spins can help you play longer and give you a better chance to win before you request a withdrawal payment. Always remember to use any bonuses you receive, and it's important to check the rules that come with them because some rewards might have special terms and conditions you need to follow.

  3. Practice on free mode

    Try out a new game in its free mode to get a sense of its features and dynamics before spending real money on it. This allows you to better understand its bonus rounds and payout structure before risking any of your own money.

  4. Start with high RTP games

    Return to Player (RTP) helps you understand how likely you are to win when playing games. If you find pokies with a high RTP percentage, it means they are more likely to give you prizes as you play them for a while.

  5. Always check the fine print

    Before you say you want to get any extra rewards, make sure to check the rules really well. A lot of these bonuses have special things you need to do first before you can take your money out.

  6. Review the pokie paylines

    Knowing how paylines work can help you make better choices when you play. The more paylines a game has, the more chances you have to win!

  7. Gamble responsibly

    Establish and adhere to limits for yourself. Managing your bankroll and never chasing your losses will ensure that gambling remains a pleasurable and entertaining pastime.

Leading software providers driving online pokies

The fun and excitement of the games you play really depend on the providers that make them. The best pokies come from well-known game developers who create awesome titles with cool features. Let’s check out some of the best of them in New Zealand!

  • Playtech

    Playtech

    Playtech is a big name in the industry of online casino games. It provides lots of different titles with cool stories, special prizes, and chances to win truly big rewards. Kiwis love their stuff because those games look great and are easy to play.

  • Pragmatic Play

    Pragmatic Play

    Pragmatic Play is really good at designing games that look awesome and have lots of exciting features. Some of their popular titles are Sweet Bonanza and Gates of Olympus.

  • Aristocrat

    Aristocrat

    Aristocrat is a well-known name in the casino industry - their pokies, such as Big Red, are popular for their classic designs and straightforward gameplay, appealing to both traditional and modern players.

  • Push Gaming

    Push Gaming

    Push Gaming is known for making fun and different slot games that are not like the usual ones. Their games have cool features and give gamblers a good chance to win big, which makes many Kiwis really enjoy playing them!

  • Microgaming

    Microgaming

    Microgaming (now Apricot) is one of the pioneers of online gaming and continues to lead the industry with its extensive library of pokies. Their progressive slot games, like Mega Moolah, have made headlines for delivering life-changing wins to players worldwide.

  • NetEnt

    NetEnt

    Some of the most well-known online slots, like Starburst and Gonzo's Quest, are created by NetEnt. Kiwi players particularly enjoy its games because of their innovative graphics, captivating gameplay, and lucrative extra features.

  • IGT

    IGT

    International Game Technology, or IGT, is a big company that is known for making land-based pokies as well as producing games for online sites. Their slot machines, or pokies, are really fun to play and can give out a lot of money. Some of their popular titles, like Cleopatra and Wolf Run, are loved by people all around the world, including New Zealand.

FAQ about online pokies NZ

Are online pokies different from online slots?

No, slots and pokies are the same kind of game. While "slots" is the favoured name in other areas of the world, "pokies" is a term that is generally used in Australia and New Zealand.

Are online pokies legal to play in New Zealand?

It is permitted for players in New Zealand to play online pokies at offshore casinos with licences from other countries. International websites can be accessed by players without any limitations.

What triggers a jackpot on an online slot machine?

Although certain pokies may need certain symbol combinations or bonus rounds to trigger the jackpot, jackpots are normally generated randomly. With every wager, they increase until one fortunate player takes home the whole prize.

Are online slots fair?

Absolutely, playing online slots is fair as long as you're at a casino with a licence. To guarantee that each spin is totally random and unaffected by past spins or outside factors, licensed casinos employ Random Number Generators (RNGs).

Are slot games safe to play for real money?

Yes, as long as you're playing at licensed and regulated casinos. These platforms are required to follow strict rules to ensure player safety, including the use of secure encryption technology to protect your financial and personal info.

Can casinos manipulate online pokies?

No, online casinos with licences are unable to do anything with slots. RNG technology is used in the games to guarantee fair play, and independent organisations routinely inspect licensed platforms to confirm the integrity of their offerings.

Can I play pokies for free?

Yes. If you want to check out games without risking real money, a lot of online casinos provide free pokies. Before spending money, you should get a feel for a game's mechanics by playing them for free.

Can I win real money playing online pokies?

Yes, you have the opportunity to win cash rewards if you play for real money. To improve your chances of winning, pick a trustworthy, licenced casino and make use of bonuses and promotions.

What is RTP?

RTP shows how much of the money that players wager on a pokie is eventually received back. For instance, a slot machine with a 96% RTP will, on average, pay out NZ$96 for every NZ$100 spent.

Who are Smart Pokies?

For gamers in New Zealand, Smart Pokies is a guide to online pokies that reviews and ranks both games and the top NZ pokie sites to play at. To assist players in making wise selections, we offer extensive guidelines and in-depth reviews.