If you’re looking for a top-notch casino scene, then the land of the long white cloud will certainly not disappoint!

The country’s vibrant and thriving casino scene is well-renowned for its excellent facilities, varied gaming options, and welcoming atmosphere for locals and tourists alike. Add to that their picturesque settings, with breathtaking surroundings, the land-based casinos in New Zealand are exquisite in every sense of the word! While staying at home in your pyjamas and playing online may seem appealing, there’s nothing quite like the human element. The buzzing atmosphere is exhilarating; in fact, you could say it’s a sensory experience in its own right! What’s more, the people, and the sheer joy of being in a place where every night feels like a party will leave you with many stories to tell!

So, let’s take a look at the five casinos in New Zealand. Our detailed guide will tell you everything you need to know about what they have to offer, their amenities, and much more.

Christchurch Casino

Gaming Options

There’s no shortage of gaming options at the Christchurch Casino! You’ll be spoilt for choice with 450+ gaming machines and a wide selection of table games, including Blackjack, Roulette, and Baccarat. Choices, choices, choices! The casino also features a dedicated bingo hall and a poker room that hosts regular tournaments, attracting both amateur and professional players alike. So, get practicing your poker face today and come on down!

Amenities and Services

Visiting the Christchurch Casino isn’t just about gaming! Oh no! It’s also a wonderful place to tickle your taste buds! The venue has several dining options for all tastes, ranging from casual eateries to fine dining restaurants. Visitors can enjoy a sumptuous meal at the Grand Café or sample a cocktail at the Monza Sports Bar while watching live sports on the big screen or listening to some of the fabulous live music on offer. For a more refined experience, Chi Kitchen offers an exquisite menu inspired by Asian cuisine.

And if gaming and eating delicious food isn’t enough (!), the casino also provides free Wi-Fi, valet parking, and a shuttle service to make your visit as convenient as possible.

Atmosphere and Staff

As a premier entertainment destination in New Zealand, it’s no surprise that the atmosphere at Christchurch Casino is lively and welcoming, making it a great place to have fun and forget about everyday life, if only for a few hours! The venue’s interior is modern and stylish, creating a comfortable environment for guests to relax and unwind. The staff are known for their professionalism and friendliness and are always on hand to help. Here, you’ll be treated like royalty!

Dress Code and Legal Age

If you’re wondering about what to wear, Christchurch Casino enforces a smart casual dress code. While there’s no need to don your tuxedos and cocktail dresses, guests are expected to be well turned out. What better excuse to put your glad rags on!

In New Zealand, the legal age for gambling is 20 years’ old.

Customer Reviews

Customers rate Christchurch Casino very highly, in particular the excellent gaming options, friendly staff, and buzzing atmosphere. However, some reviews mention that the casino can get quite busy during peak periods. This means that certain games and services may not always be available for you to enjoy.

Nevertheless, it’s still a place that will leave you with great memories, and if you’re lucky, a winning smile! So, come on down and try your luck at the tables, enjoy a meal, or simply soak up the bustling atmosphere. You certainly won’t regret it!

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Grand Casino

Gaming Options

Dunedin Casino has over 180 electronic gaming machines and 12 table games, including Blackjack, Roulette, and Caribbean Stud Poker. Private gaming areas are also available upon request. The casino is known for its relaxed gaming atmosphere and personalized service meaning it has a broad appeal to both newbies and experienced gamblers. If you’re looking for a good time, you’ve found it here!

Amenities and Services

Feeling peckish? No worries! Here, there are dining options galore where you can enjoy contemporary Kiwi cuisine together with an unrivalled collection of cocktails, beer, wine, and spirits! With its range of sumptuous meals and drinks for all tastes and budgets, the Grand Bar & Restaurant will certainly not disappoint. The historic building’s charm only adds to the experience, making it a popular choice for both gaming and dining. There’s also a foreign exchange service for those who may be needing some dollars!

Atmosphere and Staff

Dunedin Casino has a warm and inviting atmosphere and prides itself on excellent customer service. The lavish 19^th century architecture, which includes original mosaic floors, a spiral staircase, and a beautiful domed ceiling, gives the venue a unique touch of elegance which you’d be lucky to find anywhere else. An experience not to be missed and certainly one to write home about!

Dress Code and Legal Age

At Dunedin Casino, there is a strict dress code. To enter, smart casual attire is required, which means no ripped jeans or sportswear. Generally, men should wear a collared shirt. Security is strict in ensuring all guests meet these entry requirements. Additionally, to enter the venue, you need to be at least 20 years’ old.

Customer Reviews

Visitors to Dunedin Casino most often mention the charming historic setting, friendly staff, and enjoyable gaming experience. The combination of modern gaming and historic elegance makes it a unique destination for everyone that is lucky enough to visit.

 

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SkyCity Auckland

Gaming Options

With over 2,100 gaming machines and 150 table games, including Blackjack, Roulette, Baccarat, and Poker, SkyCity Auckland certainly has plenty of reasons to boast! This luxurious casino also features VIP gaming rooms for the high rollers amongst you that might be looking for a more exclusive experience. Whatever your preferred game, chances are it’s being played at SkyCity Auckland right now!

Amenities and Services

The SkyCity casino complex is simply immense! It includes a wide range of amenities, such as luxury hotels to get your head down, a theatre if you fancy enjoying a show, a convention centre, live music, and, of course, numerous restaurants and bars to delight your palate! Dining options range from fine dining experiences at The Sugar Club to more casual meals at Andy’s Burgers & Bar. Here, there’s something different for every day of the week!

Atmosphere and Staff

The atmosphere at SkyCity Auckland is both vibrant and sophisticated, with dedicated staff committed to top-notch customer service. SkyCity take their responsibilities as a host very seriously, meaning security is high on their list of priorities. The measures in place ensure guests can enjoy a safe and enjoyable gambling environment.

Dress Code and Legal Age

The dress code at SkyCity Auckland is smart casual which means that a neat and tidy standard of dress is required at all times. The legal age for entry is 20 years’ old. ID checks are rigorously enforced to comply with legal requirements.

Customer Reviews

Customers consistently praise SkyCity Auckland for its lively atmosphere, wide range of gaming options, and excellent customer service. The casino’s location in central Auckland also means it is a convenient choice for both locals and visitors alike. There’s absolutely no excuse not to give it a try!

 

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SkyCity Hamilton

Gaming Options

SkyCity Hamilton has over 330 gaming machines and 23 table games for you to enjoy, including Roulette, Blackjack, and Baccarat. Whatever level of excitement you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it here! It even hosts regular poker tournaments, attracting players from across the region.

Amenities and Services

As the premier entertainment destination in the heart of Waikato, the complex includes 8 bars and restaurants with an array of dining options. For a casual dining experience, the Local Taphouse has tasty food on offer and the added bonus of local brews on tap. For the sporting fans amongst you, the spacious Zone Sports Bar has the largest big screen in Hamilton as well as plenty of seating to relax and enjoy the game. The casino also has a bowling alley, conference centre, and X-Golf simulator! The words ‘spoilt for choice’ certainly come to mind!

Atmosphere and Staff

At SkyCity Hamilton, the atmosphere is easy-going and welcoming so you’ll most definitely feel at home here. Its friendly staff are committed to providing you with a great gaming experience and security measures are in place to ensure all guests can enjoy their visit safely.

Dress Code and Legal Age

At SkyCity Hamilton, it’s all about smart casual attire – neat and tidy is the name of the game. The legal age for entry is 20 years’ old and forms of ID will be rigorously checked.

Customer Reviews

Visitors to SkyCity Hamilton not only love its friendly environment and diverse gaming options, but they also appreciate the additional entertainment facilities on offer. The casino’s riverside location, with floor-to-ceiling glass, also adds to its charm, offering picturesque views of the Waikato river.

 

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SkyCity Queenstown

Gaming Options

At SkyCity Queenstown casino you have an outstanding choice of 86 gaming machines and 12 table games, including Blackjack, Roulette, Midi Baccarat and Caribbean Stud Poker. Despite its smaller size, the casino still provides a comprehensive gaming experience to all those that visit with an extra special personal touch.

Amenities and Services

The on-site Wild Thyme Bar & Kitchen serves a variety of hearty New Zealand dishes in a relaxed setting. It offers a lunch, dinner, and drinks menu. For locals, there’s even a lunch loyalty card! The proximity to Queenstown’s other attractions makes it a convenient stop-off point for visitors exploring the beautiful town.

Atmosphere and Staff

Due to its smaller size, the atmosphere at SkyCity Queenstown is intimate and friendly and you certainly won’t feel out-of-place here. The staff are known for their exceptional hospitality and professionalism and will do their utmost to make your visit as memorable as possible. Security is thorough, ensuring a safe gaming environment for all. Here, they certainly have your best interests at heart.

Dress Code and Legal Age

The dress code is smart casual, and you must be aged 20 years or older to enter the casino. As you might expect, guests are required to present valid ID upon entering the venue.

Customer Reviews

Guests frequently commend SkyCity Queenstown for its cozy atmosphere, excellent customer service, and the breathtaking views of Queenstown. The casino’s smaller size is viewed positively, with many saying it offers a more personalized experience. You’ll certainly be welcomed with open arms and made to feel at home.

 

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Casino Ownership in New Zealand

In New Zealand, four casinos are owned and operated by SkyCity Entertainment Group, a New Zealand-based entertainment and gaming company.

Apart from those managed by SkyCity Entertainment Group, the charming Grand Casino in Dunedin is independently managed.

Regulation and Oversight

All casinos in New Zealand are governed by the 2003 Gambling Act, which is overseen by the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA). This legislation ensures that gaming activities are conducted fairly and responsibly, and that casinos adhere to strict standards of security and player protection.

The SkyCity Entertainment Group is the main player in the casino sector in New Zealand, with four establishments in Auckland, Christchurch, Hamilton, and Queenstown.

Playing Online in New Zealand

Kiwis are able to access online game offers using offshore casino sites. However, please note that these gaming platforms are not related to the gambling houses listed in this article.

New Zealand laws do not permit local businesses to promote table games and pokies online. Nevertheless, that doesn’t mean you need to miss out on all the fun! By subscribing to the online casinos recommended on our website, you’ll still be able to enjoy popular games. These web platforms are amongst the best rated for Kiwi players looking to try their luck at online blackjack, roulette, and pokie games.