Online Pokies: Top Sites to Play Pokies in New Zealand

Written by Sophia Novakivska |
Reviewed by Mark Dash
 | 
How we Rate

Our New Zealand-based reviewers and editorial team, trusted by 12,000 visitors, test 4 online casinos per week. The reviewers, including Edward Howarth, Mark Dash, Sophia Novakivska, thoroughly test each casino as mystery shoppers who actually deposit money into the casino and then report back on what their experience was like from the player's perspective. Our ratings are based on the testers' experiences as well as diligent research of the casino background, the legal terms and conditions, and the reputation among New Zealand players, in compliance with Gambling Act of 2003. Our DashScore provides a comprehensive evaluation of each casino we tested. Our reviews comply with the Gambling Act of 2003 ensuring legal reliability.

Affiliate disclosure

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission for registrations and/or player activity at no additional cost to the player. We ensure affiliate links do not influence our rankings or reviews, maintaining our commitment to providing truthful content to our readers. Our affiliate links support our unbiased reviews, ensuring we provide genuine insights to our readers.

Objectivity Disclosure

While we may earn commissions from brands listed on this website, our reviewers' unedited opinions, based on first-hand experiences, are always their own and are not influenced by the financial aspect in any way. Our Kiwi Experts review the brands from the player's perspective and present their own opinions. This allows us to publish objective, unbiased and true reviews.

20+

Online casinos mentioned on this website allow players aged 20 and over to gamble. For New Zealand players, legal gambling age is 20, as enforced by the Gambling Act of 2003 and its  amendments. Fine can be up to NZ$500 for persons caught underage gambling. If you are visiting us from another country, you are expected to obey the local laws regarding legal gambling age.

Accuracy Checks

All our content is reviewed by a certified expert at least quarterly. We update data on terms and conditions, regulation, bonuses, payment systems, reread our content, make corrections and update pages. So you can be sure you are receiving up-to-date data on our website.

Our Casinos Are: Verified, Safe & Licensed, Tested.

Online pokies – or slots, as they’re also called – are hugely popular, and my personal favourite game to play when gambling online. If you’re looking for the best online pokies sites in New Zealand – then stick with me, because on this page, I’m going to show you exactly where I recommend playing. I’m also going to share more about pokies – so you know exactly what to expect, and the things you need to know before playing them yourself.

Best Online Pokies Platforms for Real Money 2025

These sections give you a broad look at what real money online pokies in New Zealand have to offer. Dive in and enjoy the experience—and always play responsibly.

DashScore 84
84DashScore details
Usability 80
Deposits 80
Games 90
Bonuses 90
Support 80
Aggredated rating: 37.3
Trustpilot: 2
CasinoGuru: 4.1
AskGamblers: 6.8
CasinoOrg:
Xon Bet Casino

500% up to NZ$5,500 + 550 Free Spins

Casino bonus details150% up to NZ$1,000
120% up to NZ$1,000
110% up to NZ$1,000
120% up to NZ$1,000
Free spins on: Book of Cats
Deposit options: MiFinity, Jeton, Bitcoin, Ethereum, Tether, Litecoin, USD Coin, Interac, Dogecoin, TRON, Binance, MuchBetter…
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Pros:
  • 80+ Software Providers
  • 10+ Live Dealer Studios
  • 5% Cashback with 0x wagering
Cons:
  • Some bonus terms are unclear
  • No Networked Progressive Jackpots

Licence: Curacao

Established: 2024

Pokies games: 6000

Live games: 200

Deposit options: MiFinity, Jeton, Bitcoin, Ethereum, Tether, Litecoin, USD Coin, Interac, Dogecoin, TRON, Binance, MuchBetter

Payout options: Bank Wire Transfer, Visa, MasterCard, Maestro, Neteller, Jeton, Binance, Skrill, Bitcoin, Tether, Interac, MuchBetter

Providers: Novomatic, Apparat Gaming, Avatar UX, Aviatrix, Belatra, BetGames...

DashScore 80
80DashScore details
Usability 70
Deposits 80
Games 90
Bonuses 80
Support 80
Casino popularity: 125
? We collect various statistics on casino media activity, popularity among players and show the result for the last 6 months
Aggredated rating: 40.3
Trustpilot: 2.3
CasinoGuru: 2.5
AskGamblers:
CasinoOrg: 4.5
Rocket Riches Casino

100% up to NZ$2000 + 200 free spins

Casino bonus details100% up to NZ$2000 + 200 free spins
Free spins on: Sweet Bonanza
Deposit options: VISA, MasterCard, Bank Transfer, PaySafeCard, Skrill, MuchBetter, Neteller, Flexepin, Jeton, Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, USDT, Dogecoin, Tron, USDCoin, Litecoin, Ripple, Bitcoin Cash…
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Pros:
  • Simple registration process
  • Over 5,000 games
  • 30+ software providers
  • Welcome bonus with FS
  • Cashback for loyal players
  • Fiat and crypto payments
Cons:
  • No phone number support
  • Occasional website issues
  • Crypto payment may take longer than at other casinos

Licence: Curacao

Established: 2025

Pokies games: 5000

Live games: 100

Deposit options: VISA, MasterCard, Bank Transfer, PaySafeCard, Skrill, MuchBetter, Neteller, Flexepin, Jeton, Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, USDT, Dogecoin, Tron, USDCoin, Litecoin, Ripple, Bitcoin Cash

Payout options: VISA, MasterCard, Bank Transfer, Skrill, MuchBetter, Neteller, Flexepin, Jeton, Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, USDT, Dogecoin, Tron, USDCoin, Litecoin, Ripple, Bitcoin Cash

Providers: Hacksaw, Play’n Go, Relax, Inspired, Kalamba, Fantasma...

DashScore 82
82DashScore details
Usability 84
Deposits 76
Games 79
Bonuses 79
Support 77
Aggredated rating: 57.3
Trustpilot: 3.4
CasinoGuru: 9.5
AskGamblers: 6.6
CasinoOrg:
Lamabet Casino

700% up to NZ$18,000 + 725 Free Spins

Casino bonus details100% up to 875 NZD + 200 FS
75% up to 875 NZD + 75 FS
50% up to 1200 NZD + 75 FS
Deposit options: Apple Pay, Bank Wire Transfer, Visa, MasterCard, Google Pay, Skrill, Rapid Transfer, Paysafecard, Multibanco, Jeton, Neteller, Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Binance, Ethereum, Tether, Litecoin, Dogecoin, Ripple…
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Pros:
  • Extensive game library from top providers
  • Generous welcome bonus and regular promotions
  • Quick withdrawal processing times
Cons:
  • Lamabet doesn’t give any no deposit bonuses

Licence: Anjouan Gaming Board

Established: 2024

Pokies games: 5000

Live games: 100

Deposit options: Apple Pay, Bank Wire Transfer, Visa, MasterCard, Google Pay, Skrill, Rapid Transfer, Paysafecard, Multibanco, Jeton, Neteller, Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Binance, Ethereum, Tether, Litecoin, Dogecoin, Ripple

Payout options: Bank Wire Transfer, Visa, MasterCard, Jeton, Neteller, Skrill, Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Ethereum, Tether, Litecoin, Dogecoin, Ripple, Binance

Providers: 1spin4win, 3 Oaks Gaming, Avatar UX, Belatra, BGaming, Booming Games...

DashScore 85
85DashScore details
Usability 70
Deposits 90
Games 90
Bonuses 80
Support 90
Aggredated rating: 59
Trustpilot: 3.5
CasinoGuru: 8.4
AskGamblers: 8.2
CasinoOrg:
Exclusive Bonus
Jet Casino

100% up to NZ$1500 + 500 free spins

Casino bonus details1st – 100% + up to 500 FS
2nd – 75%
3rd – 75%
4th – 50%
Free spins on: 50 No Deposit Free Spins on Book of Kemet (BGaming)

Bonus Code: RevealDASHTICKETS

Deposit options: Bank card, Skrill, paysafecard, Neosurf, Jetonbank, flexepin, Crypto (Tether TON, Tether TRC20, Litecoin, TRON, Ripple, Bitcoin, Ethereum, Tether ERC20, Dogecoin, Bitcoin Cash, USDC ERC-20, USDC BEP-20, BNB)…
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Pros:
  • Standard and fast registration
  • Fiat and crypto payments
  • More than 90 software providers
  • Over 10,000 games
  • Extensive sportsbook with sports bonuses
  • VIP program
  • Reliable and friendly customer support
Cons:
  • High wagering requirements
  • Verification required for withdrawal
  • Some negative reviews

Licence: Curacao

Established: 2020

Pokies games: 7000

Live games: 100

Deposit options: Bank card, Skrill, paysafecard, Neosurf, Jetonbank, flexepin, Crypto (Tether TON, Tether TRC20, Litecoin, TRON, Ripple, Bitcoin, Ethereum, Tether ERC20, Dogecoin, Bitcoin Cash, USDC ERC-20, USDC BEP-20, BNB)

Payout options: Bank card, Skrill, Jetonbank, Crypto (Tether TON, Tether TRC20, Litecoin, TRON, Ripple, Bitcoin, Ethereum, Tether ERC20, Dogecoin, Bitcoin Cash, USDC ERC-20, USDC BEP-20, BNB)

Providers: All41studios, Bigtimegaming, Crazytooth, Fortunefactory, Foxium, Gameburger...

DashScore 80
80DashScore details
Usability 74
Deposits 65
Games 88
Bonuses 87
Support 73
Casino popularity: -33%
? We collect various statistics on casino media activity, popularity among players and show the result for the last 6 months
Aggredated rating: 66.8
Trustpilot: 1.7
CasinoGuru: 5.9
AskGamblers: 7.8
CasinoOrg: 4.8
Dream Vegas Casino

200% up to NZD2500 + 50 Free spins

Casino bonus details200% up to NZ$2500 + 50 spins
40% up to NZ$3000 + 30 spins
60% up to NZ$1500 + 40 spins
Free spins on: Eligible Netent games

Bonus Code: RevealDREAM50

Deposit options: Visa, Mastercard, Paysafecard, Skrill, Revolut Cards, Neteller, LuxonPay, Jetonbank, Neosurf, CashToCode EVoucher…
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Pros:
  • Over 2000 games
  • More than 100 software providers
  • Numerous responsible gambling tools
Cons:
  • Small live casino section
  • No mobile app

Licence: Malta

Established: 2018

Pokies games: 2400

Live games: 55

Deposit options: Visa, Mastercard, Paysafecard, Skrill, Revolut Cards, Neteller, LuxonPay, Jetonbank, Neosurf, CashToCode EVoucher

Payout options: Bank Transfer

Providers: NetEnt, Microgaming, Play’n GO, Pragmatic Play, Evolution, Red Tiger Gaming...

DashScore 80
80DashScore details
Usability 80
Deposits 70
Games 80
Bonuses 90
Support 80
Casino popularity: +14%
? We collect various statistics on casino media activity, popularity among players and show the result for the last 6 months
Aggredated rating: 48.8
Trustpilot: 2.6
CasinoGuru: 7.4
AskGamblers: 6.9
CasinoOrg:
Spin City Casino

100% up to NZ$3750 + 500 free spins

Casino bonus details100% + 100 spins
75% bonus
75% bonus
100% bonus
Free spins on: Multifly, Valley of the Gods
Deposit options: MiFinity, MuchBetter, Tether TRC20, TRON…
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Pros:
  • Games by top pokie providers
  • Interesting slots tournaments
  • Dedicated to player protection
Cons:
  • Dated website design
  • Many mirrors exist
  • No reload bonuses

Licence: Curacao

Established: 2019

Pokies games: 1500

Live games: 400

Deposit options: MiFinity, MuchBetter, Tether TRC20, TRON

Payout options: Visa, Mastercard, Bank Transfer, Skrill, NETELLER, MiFinity, MuchBetter, Crypto (Bitcoin, Tether ERC20, Tether TRC20, Ethereum, Binance Pay Out, Litecoin, TON, BNB, USD Coin ERC20, Dogecoin)

Providers: NetEnt, Nolimit City, Playtech, Microgaming, Play’n GO, Blueprint Gaming...

DashScore 80
80DashScore details
Usability 80
Deposits 90
Games 90
Bonuses 80
Support 70
Casino popularity: -18%
? We collect various statistics on casino media activity, popularity among players and show the result for the last 6 months
Aggredated rating: 40.8
Trustpilot: 1.7
CasinoGuru: 5.9
AskGamblers: 7.0
CasinoOrg:
Jackpot Village Casino

200% up to NZ$500 + 50 Free spins

Casino bonus details200% up to 500 NZD + 50 FS
50% up to 1,000 NZD
50% up to 500 NZD + 20 FS
Free spins on: Book of Dead
Deposit options: Visa, Mastercard, Paysafecard, Skrill, Revolut Cards, Neteller, LuxonPay, Jetonbank, Neosurf, CashToCode EVoucher….
More
Pros:
  • Attractive interface
  • 5,000 games
  • Generous welcome deal
  • Daily promotions
  • Giveaways and chances of winning jackpot
  • Licensed online casino
Cons:
  • High wagering requirements
  • Slow customer support replies

Licence: Malta

Established: 2019

Pokies games: 5000

Live games: 100

Deposit options: Visa, Mastercard, Paysafecard, Skrill, Revolut Cards, Neteller, LuxonPay, Jetonbank, Neosurf, CashToCode EVoucher.

Payout options: Visa, Mastercard, Skrill, Revolut Cards, Neteller, LuxonPay, Jetonbank

Providers: Evolution Gaming, Play’n GO, NetEnt, Microgaming, Blueprint, Quickspin...

DashScore 80
80DashScore details
Usability 80
Deposits 90
Games 70
Bonuses 70
Support 90
Woom.bet Casino

100% up to NZ$2,000 + 100 Free spins

Casino bonus details100% up to NZ$2,000 + 100 FS
100% up to NZ$2,000 + 200 FS
100% up to NZ$2,000 + 300 FS
Deposit options: BTC, ETH, LTC, TRX, XRP, USDT, USDC, ADA, XLM, BCH, LINK, Mastercard, Visa, Neteller, Paysafecard, Mifinity and Skrill…
More
Pros:
  • Quick and simple sign-up
  • 3,000+ game titles
  • The leading software providers
  • A massive welcome bonus
  • Sports promotions
  • 10+ cryptocurrencies
  • Adapted casino site for mobile devices
Cons:
  • Some pages don’t load
  • No real customer reviews yet
  • RTP is often lower than advertised on providers’ sites

Licence: Tobique Gaming Commission

Established: 2025

Pokies games: 3000

Live games: 100

Deposit options: BTC, ETH, LTC, TRX, XRP, USDT, USDC, ADA, XLM, BCH, LINK, Mastercard, Visa, Neteller, Paysafecard, Mifinity and Skrill

Payout options: BTC, ETH, LTC, TRX, XRP, USDT, USDC, ADA, XLM, BCH, LINK

Providers: Evolution, Play’n GO, Pragmatic Play, Hacksaw Gaming, Nolimit, NetEnt...

DashScore 72
72DashScore details
Usability 80
Deposits 90
Games 80
Bonuses 70
Support 40
Aggredated rating: 35.8
Trustpilot:
CasinoGuru: 8.0
AskGamblers: 6.3
CasinoOrg:
Jackpot Lounge Casino

100% up to NZ$777 + 77 Free spins

Casino bonus details100% up to NZ$777 + 77 FS
100% up to NZ$500 + 50 FS
100% up to NZ$500 + 50 FS
Free spins on: Gold Blitz by Games Global
Deposit options: Visa, Mastercard, LuxonPay, Paysafecard, Skrill, MiFINITY, Apple Pay, Interac, Bank Transfer…
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Pros:
  • Simple registration process
  • Over 1,500 games
  • 30+ software providers
  • Welcome bonus with FS
  • Loyalty points redeemed for cash
  • Pragmatic Play tournament with daily prizes
Cons:
  • No phone number support
  • No crypto deposits or withdrawals
  • Poor customer support

Licence: Malta Gaming Authority

Established: 2025

Pokies games: 1500

Live games: 50

Deposit options: Visa, Mastercard, LuxonPay, Paysafecard, Skrill, MiFINITY, Apple Pay, Interac, Bank Transfer

Payout options: Visa, Mastercard, LuxonPay, Skrill, MiFINITY, Apple Pay, Interac, Bank Transfer

Providers: Pragmatic Play, Play’n Go, Push Gaming, Games Global, Relax, Wazdan...

DashScore 80
80DashScore details
Usability 90
Deposits 60
Games 90
Bonuses 80
Support 60
Casino popularity: +21%
? We collect various statistics on casino media activity, popularity among players and show the result for the last 6 months
Aggredated rating: 49.5
Trustpilot: 2.5
CasinoGuru: 7.4
AskGamblers: 7.4
CasinoOrg:
MrBet Casino

400% up to NZ$2,250 + 255 free spins

Casino bonus detailsSpecial promo of 255 free spins
150% bonus up to 270 NZ$
100% bonus up to 540 NZ$
50% bonus up to 900 NZ$
100% bonus up to 990 NZ$

Bonus Code: RevealMRBETWELCOME

Deposit options: Visa, Mastercard, PaySafeCard, Skrill, POLi, Neteller, MiFinity, Maestro, Cirrus, MuchBetter, Tether (TRC20), TRON…
More
Pros:
  • App Wolf Ring Breakout
  • Crypto-oriented
  • Generous welcome bonuses
  • 2000 games
Cons:
  • Customer support uses a translator
  • Deposits can be delayed to 96 hours
  • A bit high wagering requirements 45x

Licence: Curacao

Established: 2020

Pokies games: 2000

Live games: 230

Deposit options: Visa, Mastercard, PaySafeCard, Skrill, POLi, Neteller, MiFinity, Maestro, Cirrus, MuchBetter, Tether (TRC20), TRON

Payout options: Visa, Mastercard, Bank Transfer, Skrill, NETELLER, MiFinity, MuchBetter, Crypto (Bitcoin, Tether ERC20, Tether TRC20, Ethereum, Binance Pay Out, Litecoin, TON, BNB, USD Coin ERC20, Dogecoin)

Providers: Amatic, BetConstruct, Betsoft, BigTime Gaming, Blueprint, Booming Games...

How We Rate Pokies Sites

Our number one priority is a secure and fair gaming experience for Kiwis. Here’s a breakdown of some of the core factors we look at when reviewing pokies sites in New Zealand.

Jackpot Size by Provider

Jackpot casino slots list divided by providers.

Name Amount Details
1 Betsoft Gaming
€1,851,014
2 iSoftBet
€441,074
3 Microgaming
€10,720,105
4 Netent
€219,152
5 Play'n GO
€168,904
6 Playtech
€3,983,442
7 Yggdrasil
€402,884

Jackpots by Online Pokies Name

We have developed an interactive widget to view the jackpot size in different online pokies, divided by slot game provider.

Select Providers:

×

Microgaming Pokies Jackpots

Watch the jackpot size increase on different games and choose the best time to play your favorite online slot.

Microgaming

Total Jackpot: €10,720,105

Absolootly Mad: Mega Moolah

€2,078,989

African Legends

€71,655

Ancient Fortunes: Poseidon WowPot! MEGAWAYS

€8,576,340

Atlantean Treasures Mega Moolah

€2,078,989

Book of Atem WOWPOT

€8,576,340

Book of Goddess Mega Moolah

€2,078,989

Book of Mega Moolah

€2,078,989

Break Da Bank Again Mega Moolah

€2,078,989

Break Da Bank Again Mega Moolah 4Tune Reels

€2,078,989

Fortunium Gold Mega Moolah

€2,078,989

Juicy Joker Mega Moolah

€2,078,989

Mega Moolah 4Tune Reels

€2,078,989

Mega Moolah Goddess

€2,078,989

Mega MoolahMGS_MegaMoolah

€2,078,989

Pots O'Riches Mega Moolah

€2,078,989

Queen of Alexandria WOWPOT!

€8,576,340

Sherlock & Moriarty WOWPOT!

€8,576,340

The Finer Reels of Life WOWPOT

€8,576,340

Treasure Nile

€63,177

Wheel of Wishes

€8,576,340
×

Types of Real Money Pokies

Classic slots are for those players who prefer the old-school, three-reel style with less complicated mechanics. Titles like Double Magic, Break Da Bank, or Joker 8000 offer that classic feel. They’re typically modeled after the land-based pokies from which the modern pokies evolved.

playzilla screen

Some of the different types of online pokies include:

Popular Online Pokies With New Zealand Players

These games always reach the top of the charts because of their appealing themes, easy-to-use mechanics, and generous features. Besides, they take the leading positions among the best payout pokies.

Rich Wilde and the Book of Dead (Play'n GO)

Book of Dead

Book of Dead is one of the most iconic slots ever released – and it features the world-famous expanding symbols bonus round. Boasting a high RTP and a maximum win potential of 5,000x, it’s a game well-worth checking out.

Sweet Bonanza (Pragmatic Play)

Sweet Bonanza

Sweet Bonanza is a deliciously fun slot from Pragmatic Play that’s all about cascading symbols and big cluster wins. With its vibrant visuals, high volatility, and a chance to win up to 21,175x your stake, it’s a treat for any player’s sweet tooth!

Wolf Gold

Wolf Gold

Wolf Gold is a classic Pragmatic Play slot featuring a majestic wildlife theme and the popular Money Respin feature. With stacked wilds, free spins, and three in-game jackpots, it’s an adventure into the heart of the American wilderness.

Gates of Olympus (Pragmatic Play)

Gates of Olympus

Gates of Olympus is a Greek mythology-themed pokie with tumbling reels and a powerful multiplier feature. High volatility and a max win potential of 5,000x make this a thrilling ride to the heavens.

Big Bass Splash

Big Bass Splash

Big Bass Splash reels in fans of fishing slots with an upgraded free spins round and bigger catch potential. With scatter symbols triggering the bonus and stacked wilds, it’s a high-volatility game that’s perfect for big catch hunters.

Gonzo's Quest (NetEnt)

Gonzo’s Quest

Gonzo’s Quest takes players deep into the jungle in search of El Dorado’s treasure. With its Avalanche feature, increasing multipliers, and high volatility, this NetEnt classic is not a pokie to miss!

Rich Wilde and the Book of Dead (Play'n GO)

9 Masks of Fire

9 Masks of Fire is a pokie from Gameburger Studios featuring scatter pays and a high-paced free spins round. With a simple, classic gameplay style and wins of up to 2,000x, it’s a sizzling addition to any collection.

Sweet Bonanza (Pragmatic Play)

Mega Moolah

Mega Moolah is the legendary progressive jackpot pokie that’s made millionaires. With its African safari theme and four-tiered jackpot, it’s known for life-changing wins – and one of the most famous slots ever!

Wolf Gold

Starburst

Starburst is an iconic NetEnt pokie with expanding wilds and respins that can light up any session. Known for its vibrant visuals and low volatility, it’s a perfect pick for both new and seasoned players.

Gates of Olympus (Pragmatic Play)

88 Fortunes

88 Fortunes is an Asian-themed pokie from Shuffle Master that’s all about prosperity. Featuring Fu Bat jackpots, free spins, and a chance to win big with golden symbols, it’s a game that offers potential good fortune!

Big Bass Splash

Cleopatra

Cleopatra is a legendary pokie from IGT, featuring the Queen of the Nile herself. With its iconic free spins round and classic Egyptian theme, it’s a timeless game that’s captivated players for years.

Gonzo's Quest (NetEnt)

Bonanza Megaways

Bonanza Megaways from Big Time Gaming is the game that populariwed the Megaways mechanic. With 117,649 ways to win, cascading reels, and a free spins bonus with unlimited multipliers, it’s a pokie well-worth checking out!

These pokies stand out due to their generous bonus rounds, engaging graphics, and smooth gameplay experience. If you’re looking for more of New Zealand’s top-rated pokies, explore my comprehensive list of the best online pokies sites in NZ. I’ve reviewed and ranked the top 20 games, highlighting exactly why Kiwi players love them.

Free Pokies

We at Dashtickets provide the opportunity to try these well-known Kiwi pokies in a demo mode. Playing free slots, you are able to find out the combinations, paylines, and the best strategy to win. Explore them with us!

rad maxx slot

Rad Maxx

mega moolah slot games

Mega Moolah

big bass vegas double down deluxe slot

Big Bass Vegas Double Down Deluxe

Amazing Link Zeus

9 masks of fire

9 Masks of Fire

fire and roses joker slot

Fire and Roses Joker

Progressive Jackpot Pokies

Progressive jackpot pokies link a number of players’ bets from all over the globe, fueling a prize pool that accumulates until a winner claims big. Those that I usually try in this category are Mega Moolah, Age of the Gods: Jackpot, and Divine Fortune. Because the jackpot grows with every bet, suspense is heightened, and every spin becomes more exciting.

Though the mechanics beneath are the same as normal slots, progressive pokies tend to require max bets or specific bonus triggers to unlock the jackpot feature. These risks are worthwhile to many Kiwi players given the life-changing sums on offer. For some, chasing progressive jackpots adds that perfect mix of thrill and strategy. Yet keep in mind the responsible gambling principles.

There are a few different types of jackpot pokies, including:

software

Online Pokies Software

Pokies software determines the overall quality, speed, and fairness of a game. Veteran developers like Microgaming, NetEnt, and Play’n GO lead the way by consistently releasing polished titles. Many newer pokies now use HTML5 technology, ensuring you can enjoy seamless experiences across desktop and mobile without extra installs.

Software also plays a big role in how fun and fair a game feels. Volatility and return-to-player (RTP) rates are set by the math behind the pokie, which in turn depends on who developed it. With software from trusted providers, you can be confident that every spin plays out fairly, especially when games are verified by independent labs.

Some of the most popular game developers in New Zealand includes:

  • Microgaming — Pioneer in online pokies, famous for Mega Moolah and Thunderstruck II.
  • NetEnt — Known for Starburst and Gonzo’s Quest, plus their signature high-quality graphics.
  • Pragmatic Play — Behind hits like Sweet Bonanza and Gates of Olympus.
  • Play’n GO — Creator of the iconic Book of Dead and dozens of other top slots.
  • Quickspin — Known for bright, engaging games like Big Bad Wolf and Sakura Fortune.
  • Yggdrasil — Innovative features and striking visuals, found in titles like Vikings Go Berzerk.
  • IGT — Land-based slot legend turned iGaming provider with titles like Cleopatra and more.
  • Red Tiger — Known for daily jackpots and slick visuals in pokies like Pirates’ Plenty.
  • Push Gaming — Smaller studio with a cult following thanks to Jammin’ Jars and Razor Shark.
  • Big Time Gaming — The inventor of the Megaways mechanic, featured in Bonanza and Who Wants to Be a Millionaire Megaways.

Free vs Real Money Pokies

Free pokies enable you to spin the reels without risking your bankroll, so they are perfect for practicing strategies or testing new releases. I always try games like Starburst, 9 Masks of Fire, or Big Bass Bonanza in demo mode for casual fun and to get whether a casino is fast-loading and doesn’t have any glitches that might affect my playing experience.

Pros

  • No risk of losing money
  • Great for testing new casino games, or trying out a new casino
  • No account or deposit required

Cons

  • Can’t win real money
  • Can feel less exciting
  • Some bonus or jackpot features are unavailable in demo mode

Online pokies for real money in NZ add the element of risk and reward, giving each spin more weight. Popular titles in this category I recommend in the first place are Gates of Olympus, Sweet Bonanza, and Book of Dead. If you’re confident in a game’s features or just want to go beyond demo mode, playing with actual money might be your next step.

Pros

  • Chance to win real money
  • Every spin is very exciting
  • Qualify for jackpots and other bonuses

Cons

  • Risk of losing real money
  • Volatility can lead to long losing sessions
  • Not all games are available in every country
real

Video Pokies

Video pokies introduce cinematic graphics, narrative-driven themes, and interactive bonus games onto your screen. Most of them have additional paylines, interactive features, and dynamic in-game features in addition to the standard three-reel classic slots. Kiwi gamblers are drawn towards video pokies for the experience of adventure as well as for the myriad of gameplay elements they have in store.

If you like your graphics boosted and your graphics amplified, it’s worth trying some of the more immersive 3D pokies. What a choice option!

mobile

Apps and Mobile Pokies

Mobile pokie play is the norm as mobile site and app technology deliver fast, stable play. I enjoy the convenience of using dedicated NZ pokies apps like Casumo or Jet Casino to jump into games instantly, anytime.

For those who enjoy a fuller mobile experience without an app, responsive browser-based casinos are equally effective. Mobile pokies I played adapted to my screen size, with easy navigation and seamless game performance. This flexibility allowed me to pick a method that suited my memory at that exact time—either downloading a NZ pokie app or accessing the mobile browser directly without the need to download one more app.

If you don’t want to download an app but still wish to enjoy the adaptive and fast-loading slots, you can even explore niche formats like Telegram pokies. With this option, you can spin directly via messenger bots in mini apps or enjoy smooth, on-the-go gameplay with mobile pokies, tailored to different play styles. I tried it several times, and I can tell for sure that it’s really fast and doesn’t lack any important features.

The casinos we mention are all checked with various devices so that you can enjoy your favorite games on the desktop, Android, and tablet. I personally can recommend iPhone pokies since I mostly test them on my phone.

Different Pokies Game Mechanics

When you play pokies, you’ll run into a number of different mechanics – and we’ll look at some of the most popular and common ones below:

MechanicExplanation
PaylinesTraditional slots use fixed or adjustable lines across the reels, and you win by landing matching symbols on these lines.
Ways to WinInstead of fixed paylines, winning combinations form by landing matching symbols on adjacent reels, left to right (e.g. 243 ways).
MegawaysDeveloped by Big Time Gaming, this mechanic randomises the number of symbols on each reel, creating up to 117,649 (or more) possible ways to win.
Cluster PaysWins are awarded for groups of matching symbols touching horizontally or vertically, rather than standard lines.
Cascading ReelsWinning symbols disappear and are replaced by new ones falling from above, potentially creating chain reactions of wins.
Expanding SymbolsA special symbol can expand to cover a whole reel during bonus rounds, increasing chances of big wins.
Stacked SymbolsSymbols appear stacked on reels, covering multiple positions, and can lead to bigger wins if they align.
Wild SymbolsSubstitutes for other symbols to help form winning combinations. Variations include expanding wilds, sticky wilds, and walking wilds.
Multiplier SymbolsMultiply the value of a win by a set amount (e.g. 2x, 3x, 5x), often appearing in bonus rounds or base games.

Bonus Rounds in Online Pokies

When you play online pokies, you’ll find a number of bonus rounds in play – and below, we’ll explore some of the most common and popular bonus mechanics:

Overall Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Giant Variety: Thousands of themes, volatile levels, and mechanics—never feels stale.
  • 96 %-ish RTP Norm: My cash stretches; I usually see at least one bonus feature per session.
  • Mobile Freedom: HTML5 engines mean one tap from my Samsung home screen to live reels.
  • Low Barrier: Ten-buck deposits and 20-cent spins let me play without denting the grocery fund.

Cons

  • Volatility Can Bite: High-variance games love long dry spells—budget for them.
  • Bonus T&Cs: That shiny 200 FS offer often hides 40× wagering—read it.
  • Jackpot Odds: Mega Moolah can feel like lotto; I treat those spins as entertainment tax.
  • Theme Overload: Do we really need a tenth leprechaun slot? Finding gems means sifting through clutter.

What else Should You Know about Pokies?

So you choose your perfect casino, what are the next steps? Make sure you have learned the principles of the responsible gaming and check the ToC of the chosen casino. Now how to select your match in terms of slots? You can try our favorite titles I mentioned in the article above or choose some pokies from the ‘Popular’ or ‘Recommended’ section at the casino. Don’t forget to educate yourself on the mechanics of the pokies and how pokies work. And if you are still unsure how to play pokies and which strategy to choose, we also have materials for this.

Update Log

17 May 2025: Added pros and cons of online pokies websites.

6 May 2025: Updated intro.

30 April 2025: Added a bit of my experience to the content.

18 March 2024: Added review process description, 11 new brands.

25 Jul 2023: Added the advantages and disadvantages of real money pokies. I have provided extensive reviews of what I believe are the three best real money casinos in NZ: SkyCity, Casimba, Spin Samurai.

References

Gambling addiction warning

Gambling is a fun activity that isn't intended to be used for financial gain. Chasing losses and expecting to win are two main behaviors that may lead to gambling addiction with dire consequences on your life. If you feel like you have a problem, stop immediately, read our Responsible Gambling page, and seek help. Problem Gambling Foundation offers free and confidential support to anyone affected by problem gambling in New Zealand.

Sophia Novakivska

Pokies & Live Games Specialist 10 years experience Sophia Novakivska has 10 years of experience in online gambling. For the past decade, Kyiv-trained linguist Sophia Novakivska has analysed everything from slot algorithms to live-dealer probabilities. Her bylines appear on Better Collective, AskGamblers and Gambling.com, and she specialises in NZ bonus clauses, slot maths and live-game odds. Sophia’s credentials include GLI University’s iGaming testing & compliance course (2020) and UKGC-approved Responsible Gambling certification (2022). About Sophia Novakivska | X (Twitter): @SNovakivska | Portfolio & Contact Expert on: slots online pokies casino bonuses

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