Best Pokies at NZ Online Casinos 2025: Real Money Pokies

Having a tough time choosing the best pokies for your play style? No need to worry! 🎰

Learn about the best pokie game developers and their top titles.
Get informed on different types of pokies and their features.
We’ve tested the best pokies at New Zealand’s most popular online casinos for you!

💰Top Pokies Casinos in New Zealand 2025

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Pokies are by far the most popular and numerous casino games in the world and it can be quite overwhelming for new players to enter this world. Our team of casino reviewers and game testers has been playing thousands of pokies titles for years now and we decided to put their expertise to good use and put together a guide on the best pokies for Kiwi players and which casinos to play them at.

🥇 SpinsUp	Best Online Pokies Casino in NZ
🥈 CrownPlay	Largest Selection of Pokies
🥉 FortunePlay	Pokies Casino with Fast Payouts
⭐ RockWin	Top Free Pokies NZ Casino
⭐ Rooster.Bet	Best Mobile Casino with Real Money Pokies

Best 3 Online Casinos for Pokies in NZ

We spent hundreds of hours testing and reviewing online casinos in New Zealand to find the ones that offer the best value for pokie players. All 3 of our picks come with a vast selection of pokies from major developers and great gameplay experience, but we have gone a step further and tried to find other major features of each platform that could provide you added value.  

1. SpinsUp: Top Overall NZ Online Casino for Pokies

💵RTP	97.61%
🎰Casino Games	4.700+
🎁Casino Bonus	Up to $5,000 + 300 Free Spins
⚡Withdrawal Time	0-2 hours
💳Payment methods	Visa, Mastercard, Bitcoin, Neosurf, eZeeWallet, MiFinity, Skrill, Paysafecard

At SpinsUp we found the best overall combination of game selection and other features such as responsive customer service and flexible payment options. 
A 7-tier Loyalty Program offering up to 13% next-day cashback is a great added value for high-volume players. 
Fantastic daily bonuses for major slot games that only SpinsUp members can access include Tuesday Reload, Thursday Boost, Friday Fortune, and Sunday Funday!

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2. CrownPlay: Biggest Pokies Vault in New Zealand

💵RTP	97.43%
🎰Casino Games	4.750+
🎁Casino Bonus	100% up to $1000 + 200 Free Spins
⚡Withdrawal Time	0-2 hours
💳Payment methods	Visa, Mastercard, Bitcoin, Neosurf, eZeeWallet, MiFinity, Skrill, Paysafecard

For pokies players who seek the absolute gluttony of choice, CrownPlay is a standout casino, offering more than 4,000 pokies titles from more than 100 elite software providers. 
Pokies offer is strengthened by an attractive Live Casino section featuring player favourites like Live Blackjack and Live Roulette titles with a 25% Live Cashback.
Licensed by Curacao eGaming, CrownPlay offers a safe a reliable gaming environment for Kiwi players.

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3. Fortune Play: Pokies with Lightning Quick Withdrawals

💵RTP	98,07%
🎰Casino Games	5 000+
🎁Casino Bonus	Up to $5,000 + 300 Free Spins
⚡Withdrawal Time	0-2 hours
💳Payment methods	Visa, Mastercard, Bitcoin, Neosurf, Ezeewallet, Mifinity, Skrill, Paysafecard

We were impressed by FortunePlay’s commitment to easy and painless money transfers. The company offers 30 different payment options, including instant and same-day withdrawals.
Impressive Bonus Buy section for slots, giving players easy access to those desirable bonus rounds/spins. 
VIP status at FortunePlay improves further on deposit and withdrawal processing times, as well as increasing the betting limits at your favourite games. 

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Pokies at a Glance: Key Facts

In 2023, pokies alone generated a staggering $614 million in revenue, making them the most lucrative form of gambling in New Zealand.
Our top choice New Zealand online casino for pokies is SpinsUp!
The biggest payout ever recorded from a pokie in New Zealand was $10.14 million by a New Zealander named Rawiri Pou in June 2016 on the popular Mega Moolah jackpot slot.
Pokies in New Zealand cater to a wide range of players, with betting limits starting as low as $0.01 and going up to $500 per spin.
In New Zealand, a staggering 95% of pokies players use mobile devices to enjoy their games. This trend reflects the growing popularity and convenience of mobile gaming

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What Are Pokies?

Pokies, also known as slot machines, are a popular form of gambling in New Zealand, both online and in physical casinos. These games involve spinning reels with various symbols, and the goal is to land matching symbols on paylines to win. 

Pokies are loved for their simplicity, diverse themes, and the excitement of hitting a big payout. They often feature special symbols like wilds and scatters, bonus rounds, and free spins, making them engaging and potentially lucrative for players.

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10 Most Popular Pokies in New Zealand

New Zealand players have a strong affinity for certain pokies, known for their engaging themes, unique features, and potential for big winnings. Here’s a look at the top 10 pokies that have captured the hearts of Kiwi players.

Starburst

Starburst is a space-themed pokie with vibrant colours and simple yet captivating gameplay. The game features expanding wilds that trigger re-spins, creating frequent winning opportunities. With a medium volatility and a maximum win of 500x your stake, it’s ideal for both beginners and experienced players looking for straightforward, rewarding gameplay.

Gonzo’s Quest

Embark on an adventure with Gonzo in Gonzo’s Quest, a Mayan-themed pokie with innovative Avalanche reels. Instead of spinning, symbols fall into place, and winning combinations explode, making way for new symbols and increasing multipliers. This high-volatility game offers substantial win potential, with free falls (free spins) that can lead to significant payouts.

Mega Moolah

Mega Moolah is synonymous with life-changing jackpots. This African safari-themed pokie is famous for its progressive jackpot, which starts at $1 million and often reaches far more. The game also offers wild multipliers and free spins, making it an exciting choice for players chasing big wins. While the RTP is lower, the jackpot potential is unmatched.

Book of Dead

Book of Dead takes you on an Egyptian adventure with Rich Wilde. Known for its high volatility, this pokie offers expanding symbols and free spins, providing substantial winning potential. The game’s RTP is above average, and the maximum win can reach 5,000x your stake, making it a popular choice for players who enjoy risk and reward.

Big Bass Bonanza

Big Bass Bonanza is a fishing-themed pokie where players aim to catch big wins. The game features free spins and multiplier wilds, with a unique “fisherman” feature that collects all fish symbol values. With medium to high volatility and a maximum win of 2,100x your stake, it’s a fun and potentially lucrative game.

Gates of Olympus

Gates of Olympus invites you to join the Greek gods in this high-volatility pokie. Featuring cascading reels and multipliers, the game offers free spins that can significantly boost your winnings. The maximum win is an impressive 5,000x your stake, and the RTP is above average, making it a favourite among players looking for big thrills.

Buffalo Hunter

Buffalo Hunter is a classic pokie with a Wild West theme, featuring the majestic buffalo as the star. Known for its stacked symbols and free spins with multipliers, the game offers medium volatility and frequent payouts. The potential win isn’t as high as some others, but its simplicity and reliable rewards make it a popular choice.

Cleopatra

Cleopatra transports players to ancient Egypt, offering free spins with a 3x multiplier and wild symbols that double winnings. This medium-volatility game has been a staple in both land-based and online casinos for years, thanks to its balanced gameplay and the potential to win up to 10,000x your stake in a single spin.

Queen of the Nile

Queen of the Nile is another Egyptian-themed pokie, featuring Cleopatra. The game offers free spins with a 3x multiplier, wilds, and scatters, making it a hit among players. With medium volatility and solid payout potential, it appeals to those who enjoy traditional pokies with a touch of ancient history and decent winning opportunities.

Wanted Dead or a Wild

Wanted Dead or a Wild is a high-volatility pokie set in the Wild West, offering expanding wilds, a duel feature, and free spins. The game’s gritty theme and unique mechanics make it stand out, while the potential to win up to 12,500x your stake attracts players looking for big rewards in a tough setting.

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Best Online Pokies: Game Comparison

Choosing the right pokie can enhance your gaming experience. We’ve compared some of the most popular online pokies in New Zealand based on their RTP and special features to help you find your perfect match.

Pokie	RTP	Special Features
Starburst	96.50%	Expanding wilds, re-spins
Gonzo’s Quest	96.20%	Avalanche reels, increasing multipliers, free falls (free spins).
Mega Moolah	89.50%	Progressive jackpot, wild multipliers, free spins.
Book of Dead	96.75%	Expanding symbols, free spins, high volatility.
Big Bass Bonanza	97.00%	Free spins, multiplier wilds, fisherman collects all feature.
Gates of Olympus	96.90%	Cascading reels, multipliers, free spins, high volatility.
Buffalo	95.50%	Free spins, multipliers, stacked symbols.
Cleopatra	95.60%	Free spins with a 3x multiplier, wild symbol doubles wins.
Queen of the Nile	96.10%	Free spins with a 3x multiplier, wilds, and scatters.
Wanted Dead or a Wild	96.80%	Expanding wilds, duel feature, high volatility, free spins.

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How to Register and Play at Pokies Casino

We know that you are excited to start spinning, so our team has put together a short and simple guide that you can follow and start playing pokies in minutes.

Step 1: Choose a Top Pokies Casino from our Top List

Begin by selecting a reputable and exciting pokies casino from our carefully curated list. We’ve done the research for you, so you can focus on picking the one that best suits your preferences and offers the most enticing bonuses.

Step 2: Create an Account

Once you’ve chosen your casino, the next step is to create an account. Simply click on the sign-up button, fill in your details, and confirm your email address. It’s quick, easy, and you’ll be ready to go in no time!

Step 3: Deposit

After setting up your account, it’s time to make your first deposit. Choose your preferred payment method, enter the amount you’d like to deposit, and confirm. Your funds will be instantly available, so you can start playing right away.

Step 4: Activate the Welcome Bonus

Don’t forget to claim your welcome bonus! Most casinos will offer you a bonus when you make your first deposit. Be sure to read the terms and conditions, then activate the bonus to boost your bankroll before you start playing.

Step 5: Start Playing!

With your account funded and your bonus activated, you’re all set to dive into the world of pokies! Explore the vast selection of games, try out different slots, and enjoy the thrill of spinning the reels. Have fun and play responsibly!

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Types of Pokies in Online Casinos

As a team of expert casino game testers, we’ve delved deep into the world of New Zealand online pokies. This list is the product of our extensive research, testing, and experience, offering insights into the most popular and exciting slot types available.

3 Reel Pokies:
These are the most straightforward pokies, featuring three reels and typically one payline. They hark back to the classic slot machines found in land-based casinos. With their simple design and traditional symbols like fruits, bells, and bars, they’re perfect for beginners or those who appreciate a nostalgic gaming experience.
5 Reel Pokies:
Offering a more complex and engaging gameplay experience, 5 Reel Pokies are the evolution of traditional slots. With five reels and multiple paylines, these games provide a greater variety of winning combinations, often including exciting bonus rounds, free spins, and enhanced graphics. They cater to players seeking more features and increased entertainment value.
Classic Pokies:
These pokies capture the essence of traditional slot machines, both in terms of design and gameplay. Classic Pokies usually feature three reels and limited paylines, with straightforward mechanics and symbols that evoke the charm of vintage slots. They are ideal for players who enjoy a simpler, more traditional approach to gaming.
Video Pokies:
Video Pokies represent the cutting-edge of online slot games. They boast advanced graphics, rich animations, and immersive themes that transport players into various storylines or fantasy worlds. These slots often come with multiple bonus features, interactive elements, and a higher number of paylines, providing an engaging and dynamic gaming experience.
Interactive Pokies:
These slots take player engagement to the next level by incorporating interactive elements, such as mini-games and decision-making opportunities. Interactive Pokies allow players to influence outcomes, making the gameplay more personalized and immersive. They’re perfect for those who enjoy being actively involved in their gaming experience.
High RTP Pokies:
For players looking to maximize their chances of winning, High RTP Pokies are the ideal choice. These slots offer a higher Return to Player (RTP) percentage, meaning a larger portion of bets is returned to players over time. While the wins might be smaller, they are more frequent, providing a steady gaming experience.
High Volatile Pokies:
High Volatile Pokies are designed for players who are willing to take bigger risks for the chance of larger rewards. These slots feature less frequent but potentially huge payouts, making them ideal for thrill-seekers who enjoy the excitement of chasing big wins.
Progressive Pokies:
Progressive Pokies offer the ultimate jackpot experience. These games feature a growing jackpot that increases with every bet placed until one lucky player hits the winning combination. The allure of potentially life-changing payouts makes Progressive Pokies a favorite among those who dream of landing a massive win.

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Best Online Bonuses for Pokie Players 

We have claimed and tested numerous online bonuses tailored for pokie players and here is our rundown of the most common bonus types, along with our experiences and insights on what to expect—both good and bad—when taking advantage of them.

A No Deposit Bonus:
Allows players to try out pokies without risking their own money. While this bonus is a great way to explore games, we’ve found that the wagering requirements are often higher, making it more challenging to cash out winnings. Still, it’s an excellent way to get a feel for the casino without financial commitment.
The 1st Deposit Bonus:
is offered when you make your initial deposit. These bonuses are usually generous, giving you a significant boost to your bankroll. However, our experience shows that while the bonus amount is appealing, there are often strict wagering requirements and limitations on which pokies you can play to meet them.
Matched Bonuses:
multiply your deposit, sometimes even doubling or tripling it. We’ve noticed that these bonuses are great for extending your playtime and increasing your chances of hitting a win. However, the excitement can be dampened by complex terms and conditions, particularly around withdrawal limits and eligible games. It’s a fantastic boost, but always know what you’re getting into.
Free Spins:
bonuses grant you a set number of free spins on selected games. We’ve enjoyed the opportunity to try new pokies without risking our funds, but these bonuses often come with low win caps and are tied to specific games. While it’s fun and risk-free, the potential rewards are often limited, making it more of an introductory offer than a big-win opportunity.
Reload Bonuses:
are for existing players who top up their accounts. We’ve found these to be less generous than welcome bonuses, but they’re a great way to maintain your bankroll. The downside? They often come with higher wagering requirements and shorter validity periods. They’re useful for regular players, but timing your deposits to maximize these bonuses is key.

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Most Popular Pokies Software Providers in New Zealand

New Zealand’s online casino scene is powered by some of the best software providers in the industry. These companies are known for delivering high-quality pokies with unique themes, exciting features, and reliable performance. Here’s a closer look at the top providers we encountered while testing NZ casinos:

NetEnt:
is renowned for its innovative and visually stunning pokies. With popular titles like “Starburst” and “Gonzo’s Quest,” they’ve captivated Kiwi players with immersive gameplay, cutting-edge graphics, and frequent updates, making them a top choice in New Zealand casinos.
IGT:
or International Game Technology has a long-standing reputation in both land-based and online casinos. Their pokies, like “Cleopatra” and “Wolf Run,” are known for their engaging themes and solid performance, offering a blend of classic appeal and modern features.
Yggdrasil:
is famous for its creative approach to pokies, offering games that are both innovative and entertaining. With titles like “Vikings Go Berzerk,” they’ve gained popularity in New Zealand for their high-quality graphics and unique gameplay mechanics.
Play’n GO:
is celebrated for its diverse range of pokies that cater to various player preferences. Games like “Book of Dead” are particularly popular among Kiwi players, thanks to their engaging storylines, crisp visuals, and rewarding bonus features.
Big Time Gaming:
has made a significant impact with their Megaways™ mechanic, offering thousands of ways to win. Titles like “Bonanza” and “Extra Chilli” have become favourites in New Zealand, known for their high volatility and potential for massive payouts.
Microgaming:
is a pioneer in the online gaming industry, offering an extensive portfolio of pokies. Their games, such as “Mega Moolah,” are synonymous with big jackpots and thrilling gameplay, making them a staple in any top New Zealand online casino.
Pragmatic Play:
is known for delivering high-quality, mobile-friendly pokies that resonate with players. With popular games like “Wolf Gold” and “The Dog House,” they provide a seamless gaming experience with frequent releases that keep players coming back for more.
Blueprint Gaming:
offers a unique blend of licensed titles and original creations. With games like “Fishin’ Frenzy” and “Genie Jackpots,” they’ve earned a strong following in New Zealand, thanks to their engaging themes, bonus-rich gameplay, and diverse portfolio.

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How to Find the Best NZ Sites for Playing Pokies

As passionate pokies players ourselves, we understand how crucial it is to find the perfect online casino for them. Here’s what we look for in the best New Zealand sites to ensure a top-notch pokie experience.

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Top 5 Tips on How to Play and Win Real Money Pokies

Maximizing your chances of winning real money on pokies involves a blend of strategy and knowledge. Here are five essential tips that can help you get the most out of your pokies experience in New Zealand.

Aim for Many Paylines:
Choosing pokies with numerous paylines increases your chances of landing a winning combination. While these games might require a higher bet, the added paylines provide more opportunities to win, making them a smart choice for players looking to maximize their potential payouts.
Play High RTP Pokies:
Return to Player (RTP) percentage is crucial in determining how much a pokie pays back over time. Always opt for pokies at higher RTP casinos, typically above 96%, to improve your chances of long-term success. These games offer better value and are more likely to yield returns.
Use Promotions:
Take advantage of casino promotions like free spins, deposit bonuses, and loyalty rewards. These offers can extend your gameplay and give you more chances to win without increasing your own investment. Always read the terms and conditions to make the most of these bonuses.
Look for Feature-Rich Pokies:
Pokies with multiple features like free spins, multipliers, and bonus rounds can significantly boost your winnings. These features add excitement and extra opportunities to hit big payouts. Always explore the game’s features before playing to ensure you’re getting the most out of your experience.
Know the Key Terms:
Familiarize yourself with key pokie terms such as paylines, RTP, wilds, scatters, and volatility. Understanding these terms helps you make informed decisions, enhancing your gameplay strategy and improving your overall chances of winning. Knowledge is power when it comes to pokies!

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Pokies Glossary for Getting Started in Casinos

Understanding the terminology is crucial when diving into online pokies in New Zealand. This glossary will help you get familiar with the essential terms and features, ensuring you’re well-prepared to enjoy and maximize your gaming experience. Below, we’ve outlined key terms with concise definitions and additional insights.

Term	Definition	Additional Information
Bet One	Betting on a single payline for the minimum amount.	Ideal for beginners, this keeps bets low while allowing participation.
Bet Max	Wagering the maximum amount on all available paylines.	Increases chances of big wins and accessing top payouts.
Reels	Vertical columns that spin to display symbols in a pokie game.	Most pokies feature 3 to 5 reels, each influencing the game’s outcome.
Paylines	Specific lines where matching symbols must land to win.	More paylines offer more chances to win, often requiring higher bets.
Paytables	A chart displaying payouts for various symbol combinations.	Helps you understand symbol values and potential rewards for different combinations.
Multiplier	Feature that increases the value of your winnings by a specific factor.	Can significantly boost payouts, especially with free spins.
Free Spins	Bonus spins awarded without additional bets.	Popular feature, leading to wins without extra cost.
Bonus Round	A special feature offering additional gameplay and rewards.	Often results in higher winnings and adds excitement to the game.
Re-Spin	Feature allowing a specific reel to spin again without affecting others.	Provides a second chance to complete winning combinations.
Cascading/Tumbling Reels	Reels where winning symbols disappear, allowing new ones to fall.	Can create multiple wins from a single spin, enhancing potential payouts.
Progressive Jackpot	A jackpot that increases with each bet until won.	Can reach life-changing amounts, with each bet contributing to the prize.
Wild Symbol	A symbol that substitutes for others to create winning combinations.	Often leads to higher chances of landing winning combinations.
Scatter Symbol	Special symbol that triggers bonuses or free spins, regardless of paylines.	Key to unlocking additional features, can appear anywhere on the reels.
Autoplay	A feature allowing the game to spin automatically for a set number of rounds.	Convenient for players who prefer automatic gameplay.
Volatility	Describes the risk level, indicating the frequency and size of payouts.	High volatility means bigger, less frequent wins; low volatility offers smaller, regular payouts.
RNG (Random Number Generator)	Technology ensuring outcomes of each spin are random and fair.	Ensures each spin is independent and unbiased, crucial for fair gameplay.

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Conclusion: Top Online Casinos with Pokies in 2025

Whatever the future of new online casinos brings, one thing is certain: Pokies will remain to be at the centre of it as the most popular and beloved casino game in the world. In this guide, we have provided you with everything you need to know about pokies and where to play them. 

Pokies remain accessible to players of all skill levels, are very immersive, and offer interactive gameplay that players crave. They are also very easy to create bonuses and promotions around, so Kiwi players are in for a treat. 

If you are ready to test the waters and find your favourite pokie, check out the lucrative offer from our casino partner for Kiwi players, featuring some amazing pokie titles and features!

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FAQ: Best Pokies at Online Casinos NZ