Online pokies are really popular not just in New Zealand but in the rest of the world. People love playing them because they’re fun, easy to launch, and you could win money.
Table of Contents
This guide will help you learn how to play pokies safely in New Zealand.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll know how to find trustworthy websites, make sure games are fair, play responsibly, and have fun while staying safe.
What are Online Pokies?
It’s no secret that Kiwis love to play pokies. Playing pokies at online casinos is preferred over playing at any land-based casino.
This provides a sense of comfort as it reduces the stress and time spent travelling. So, what are pokies exactly, and why are they getting loved?
Pokies are nothing but just a game form in gambling that displays symbols on a grid, and we just need to match those to land a winning and receive a payout.
The way online pokies work is very simple – A grid of symbols is displayed with a different payout associated with different symbols.
You just spin and land some matching symbols to win a good sum of money. But to enjoy pokies, you must make sure you choose legit online ones.
Check the legal framework of online pokies and the license from popular governing bodies.
Legal Framework of Online Pokies
The legal framework for online pokies in New Zealand is a bit of an interesting situation.
The Gambling Act 2003 is the main legislation governing gambling in New Zealand. It prohibits “remote interactive gambling”.
While domestic online pokies are restricted, no laws specifically prevent New Zealanders from playing pokies on offshore websites.
This means that playing pokies on these sites isn’t illegal for the player, but it exists in a legal grey area.
There are a few exceptions to the general prohibition. Notably, Lotto NZ and the TAB (New Zealand Racing Board) are authorized to offer online gambling products like pokies.
The New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) acknowledges the prevalence of offshore gambling and is considering updates to the Gambling Act to create a safer and regulated online gambling environment.
Their consultation paper on this topic can be found by searching for “Review of Online Gambling in New Zealand.”
Top Casino Regulatory Bodies Worldwide
While hopping to any online casino, I always check the licensing information of that casino.
I found not only one or two but multiple regulatory bodies are responsible for providing licenses to online casinos in New Zealand.
- Malta Gaming Authority – The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) is the main regulatory body overseeing all gaming activities in Malta. It’s highly regarded worldwide as a top remote gaming regulator. The MGA collaborates internationally to keep gaming crime-free. Many online casinos licensed by the MGA are available to players in New Zealand.
- UK Gambling Authority – The UK Gambling Commission licenses, regulates and guides those offering gambling in Great Britain. Its main goal is to make gambling safer. Key actions include:
- Setting License Conditions and Codes of Practice (LCCP).
- Banning gambling with credit cards to prevent overspending.
- Launching the National Strategy to Reduce Gambling Harms in April 2019, which ran until April 2022 across England, Scotland, and Wales.
- Kahnawake Gaming Commission – The Commission licenses and regulates three types of land-based gaming: Poker Rooms, Raffles, and Electronic Gaming Devices. It ensures that all gaming activities in the Mohawk Territory of Kahnawàke meet key principles to protect players. Under its regulations, the Commission issues five types of licenses for online gaming: IGL, CPA, KPL, CSPA, and LDSA.
- Gibraltar Gaming Authority – The Gibraltar Regulatory Authority (GRA) doesn’t directly govern online pokies in New Zealand. The GGC is a respected licensing body known for its strict regulations and focus on player protection. While not a regulatory body, the GBGA promotes responsible gambling and a fair market. Look for GGC licenses when choosing offshore casinos in NZ.
How to Find Legit Online Pokies?
Basically finding a legitimate online pokies is directly proportional to looking for a legitimate online casino.
When looking for legit online pokie games, I focus on several key factors to ensure I play in a secure and fair environment.
Here’s what I do:
1. Check Licensing and Regulation
The first thing to check at any online casino is its license and regulations.
They should be from a top and reputable authority, such as the
- Malta Gaming Authority (MGA)
- Kahnawake Gaming Authority
- The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC)
- The Gibraltar Regulatory Authority in NZ
2. Read Reviews and Player Feedback
I always prefer reading reviews from a trusted website like ours to get an overview of a casino.
Reading real customer reviews can also provide you with a clear overview of that online casino.
You can get a good sense of a casino’s reputation by checking on issues related to withdrawal, game fairness, wagering requirements, and customer service.
3. Look for Certified Game Providers
I make sure the pokies games come from well-known and certified game providers like Apricot (Microgaming), Evolution, Playtech, or Aristocrat.
These providers have their games regularly tested by independent agencies such as eCOGRA or iTech Labs, ensuring fair RNG (Random Number Generator) outcomes.
4. Check for SSL Encryption
Security is paramount for me and everyone. So, always check if the casino uses SSL encryption to protect personal and financial information.
This can usually be verified by looking for a padlock symbol in the browser’s address bar and ensuring the URL starts with “https”.
5. Evaluate Payment Methods
I look for trusted payment methods like credit/debit cards, e-wallets (PayPal, Skrill, Neteller), and bank transfers.
Additionally, I verify that the casino processes withdrawals promptly and without unnecessary delays.
6. Assess Customer Support
Reliable customer support is crucial. I prefer casinos that offer 24/7 support via live chat, email, and phone.
I usually test their responsiveness with a few queries before committing.
7. Understand Bonuses and Wagering Requirements
Bonuses can be enticing, but I always read the fine print. I ensure the terms and conditions, especially wagering requirements, are fair and achievable.
Unrealistic bonus terms can be a red flag, so be aware.
8. Test the Platform
I often try a few games in demo mode if available.
This helps me assess the platform’s usability, game quality, and whether I enjoy the overall experience before wagering real money.
9. Verify Responsible Gambling Policies
I look for casinos that promote responsible gambling.
Features like deposit limits, self-exclusion options, and links to gambling help organizations are indicators of a casino that cares about its players’ well-being.
Choosing a trustworthy online pokies platform is crucial for a safe and enjoyable gaming experience.
Third-Party Audits and Testing Agencies
To validate the fairness of online pokies, reputable platforms collaborate with third-party testing agencies and auditing organizations.
These independent entities assess the games’ RNGs and other components to ensure they function correctly and generate truly random outcomes.
Some well-known testing agencies include:
- eCOGRA: eCOGRA (eCommerce Online Gaming Regulation and Assurance) is a widely recognized testing agency certifying the fairness and security of online gambling products.
- iTech Labs: iTech Labs is another reputable testing laboratory that ensures the integrity of online gaming systems and platforms.
- GLI (Gaming Laboratories International) is a global testing and certification company that specialises in ensuring the fairness and accuracy of gaming products.
By working with these testing agencies, legitimate online pokies platforms provide players with an additional layer of assurance regarding the fairness and randomness of their games.
This commitment to transparency and rigorous testing contributes to a safer and more enjoyable gaming environment for players.
Summary – Checking Online Pokies Legality
The best way to check the pokies legality is to check everything from reputable governing authorities like the Gambling Act 2003, the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) Website, and casino licensing parties.
- The primary responsibility is to check the primary gambling legislation in the Gambling Act 2003, which states offshore pokies are legal here.
- The DIA website provides detailed information on gambling laws, including online gambling.
- Check from the Common licensing authorities include:
- Malta Gaming Authority (MGA)
- UK Gambling Commission
- Gibraltar Regulatory Authority
- Curacao eGaming
Conclusion
Online Pokies can only be considered legal if they come from a strong and reputable software providers that are clearly licensed and regulated.
Although, pokies are are judged with its RTP, volatility and gameplay, but it is very important to examine the legitimacy.
There are approximately more than 17,799 pokies available in New Zealand and almost 80% of kiwis love to spend their time with them.
Reputable gaming developers contribute to the fairness via Random Number Generators and third party audits that enhances trust.
FAQs
How do I choose a legitimate online pokies platform?
Opt for platforms with valid gambling licenses, robust security measures, positive player reviews, and support from reputable testing agencies like eCOGRA or iTech Labs.
Who are some trustworthy game developers in the online pokies industry?
Reputable developers include Apricot (Microgaming), Playtech, IGT, and Yggdrasil Gaming, which are known for their commitment to quality and fairness.
How can I ensure fairness and randomness in online pokies?
Legitimate platforms employ RNGs, undergo regular audits by third-party agencies like eCOGRA, and provide transparent information about their RNG algorithms.
Why is responsible gambling necessary, and how can I practice it?
Responsible gambling ensures a healthy gaming balance. Set limits, budget wisely, take breaks, avoid chasing losses, recognize signs of impact, and seek help when needed.
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