Table of Contents
- Top Pokies to Play Online
- How to Play Pokies Online – 4 Simple Steps
- Types of Real Money Online Pokies
- How We Review Online Pokie Sites
- Why You Should Play Pokies Online for Real Money in New Zealand
- Advantages and Disadvantages of Real Money Online Pokies
- Real Money Pokies Bonuses
- Who Makes Real Money Pokies? – The Best Software Providers
- Some Pokies Terminologies – Key Terms for Getting Started
- Tips on How to Win at Real Money Online Pokies
- Alternatives to Real Money Pokies
- Real Money Pokies FAQ
Top Pokies to Play Online
Gonzo’s Quest
- Developer: NetEnt
- RTP: 95.97%
- Volatility: Mid/High
One of the best pokie iterations of the Mayan civilization, this game follows the charismatic explorer Gonzo on his adventure across the lost golden city of El Dorado. It’s visually stunning with smooth graphics and animations. It also boasts several captivating features, like the Avalanche Reels mechanism and three different bonus features. It’s played on a 5-reel setup with 20 paylines.
Book of Dead
- Developer: Play ‘n GO
- RTP: 96.21%
- Volatility: High
This was Play ‘n GO’s flagship pokie and the first release in the Riche Wilde series. Book of Dead comes with 5 reels, 10 paylines, and two bonus features – expanding symbols and a bonus round with unlimited free spins. This pokie quickly gained cult status after its release and remains one of the most-played titles at top online casinos in NZ.
Gates of Olympus
- Developer: Pragmatic Play
- RTP: 96.5%
- Volatility: Very High
Ancient Greek pokies are popular among Kiwis, and this one promises really exciting gameplay with tumbling reels and plenty of extras. It’s a 6-reeler with an All Ways pay mechanism. There are lots of free spins with multiplier boosts up to 500x. An ante mode allows you to double your chances of entering the bonus round.
Starburst
- Developer: NetEnt
- RTP: 96.09%
- Volatility: Low
This OG pokie is the first one to really skyrocket NetEnt’s fame. Showcasing an outer space theme with an arcade feel, the game mesmerises with beautiful graphics and lots of Starburst Wilds. The expanding Wilds can trigger several respins, and it all plays out on 5 standard reels with 10 paylines.
Cleopatra
- Developer: IGT
- RTP: 95.02%
- Volatility: Medium
Start with this IGT classic if you’re looking for a memorable Egyptian-themed pokie. From land-based casinos to the best online pokie sites, Cleopatra ranks among the best slots. This 5-reel, 20 payline game is also among the top real money pokies with free spins, offering up to 180 spins with 3x win multipliers. Also watch out for Wild symbols that double payouts.
88 Fortunes
- Developer: Bally Technologies
- RTP: 96%
- Volatility: Medium
This East Asian-themed pokie boasts four different jackpots and a generous ‘Free Games’ round. It plays out on 5 reels with 243 ways to win. Bets are available from 88 cents across all devices. Thanks to the All Up feature, you can buy gold coins to increase your winning potential.
Mega Moolah
- Developer: Microgaming
- RTP: 93.42%
- Volatility: Low
Here’s the number one progressive jackpot pokie in the world. It has produced more millionaires than any other jackpot pokies. Themed around the African Safari and set on 5 reels with 25 paylines, the game comes with four different progressive jackpots. Other features include Wilds that double payouts and free spins with multipliers.
Bonanza Megaways
- Developer: Big Time Gaming
- RTP: 96%
- Volatility: High
This is the first-ever Megaways pokie and the most popular one to date, and it offers up to 117,649 ways to win. The setup involves 6 reels with up to 7 symbols per reel. To complement the exciting Megaways engine are free spins, expanding multipliers, and a Reactions feature where new symbols fall in place of winning symbols that explode off the reels.
Big Bass Bonanza
- Developer: Pragmatic Play
- RTP: 96.71%
- Volatility: High
Having only 10 paylines, this 5-reel pokie offers simple gameplay. However, unique features like the fisherman Wild, multipliers and free spins will offer up lots of action. This fishing-themed game has spun quite a few sequels because of its massive popularity following its launch.
Sakura Fortune 2
- Developer: Quickspin
- RTP: 96.03%
- Volatility: High
Sequel to the popular Sakura Fortune, this pokie thrives on 5 reels with a 3x4x4x4x3 setup and 576 win ways. The highlight of the gameplay is the Sakura Wilds that nudge to create Wild reels with respins. Enjoy free spins with multipliers where the iconic Japanese warrior princess slashes her way to deliver some very generous payouts.
How to Play Pokies Online – 4 Simple Steps
Kiwis love pokies for many reasons, one of which is how easy they are to play. Unlike table games like poker, blackjack or baccarat, there’s no learning curve. It’s as easy as launching the game and hitting the “Spin” button.
Step 1: Sign up at any top NZ pokies sites
We highly recommend picking one of the sites we’ve listed above, since we’ve vetted them and can guarantee the quality they offer. Click through the links on the banners at the top of this page to register.
Step 2: Claim a pokie bonus
You’ll maximise your pokie experience if you claim a bonus. Just make sure to confirm that the terms are fair enough for you.
Step 3: Select your preferred pokie game
There are often hundreds or thousands of pokies for you to enjoy. Select the game you want to play by clicking on the thumbnail.
Step 4: Start spinning and winning
After the game loads, all you have to do is set how much you want to bet and start spinning the reels. The outcome of every round is random, so sit back and see what each spin brings.
Types of Real Money Online Pokies
The pokies library at any NZ online casino is always massive. And when you have 2,000 or 3,000 of these games, it’s extremely difficult to scroll through all of them. Fortunately, you won’t have to face this problem. Pokies are often divided into several categories based on their features, making the browsing experience super easy. Here are some of the most popular variants:
Classic Pokies
These are the traditional, no-fuss pokies that remind us of old-school slot machines. They typically feature three reels and are great for straightforward, easy-to-understand play.
Video Slots
A step up in terms of complexity and excitement, video slots come with enhanced graphics and animations. They’re characterised by multiple paylines and features like free spins and bonus games, offering a more immersive experience.
Progressive Pokies
These real money jackpot pokies are for those hoping to win big. Every bet on these games contributes to the jackpot amount, which continues growing until one lucky player hits it. Progressive pokies are networked across different sites, so the potential payouts are massive.
Fruit Slots
A nod to the original slot machine symbols, fruit slots are colourful, easy to play, and full of fruity symbols. They usually have basic features with three reels, although modern fruit slots can have up to five reels.
Interactive Pokies
Interactive pokies provide a more engaging experience by offering mini-games and storylines that unfold as you play. The highlight is the bonus rounds where you can actively participate, and your choice often determines the outcome, e.g. pick me bonus rounds.
Branded Pokies
Based on popular movies, TV shows, or cultural icons, branded pokies are a hit for fans looking to engage with familiar themes. These games often feature original footage and soundtracks, which makes them authentic and highly nostalgic for fans of the original.
Megaways Pokies
These are the new kids on the block, offering a multitude of ways to win – usually up to 117,649. Megaways pokies are unpredictable and exciting, with a changing reel structure on each spin.
How We Review Online Pokie Sites
It’s always a tricky subject for players, finding the best sites to play at. Luckily, you can count on Casinos.win to guide you to the top destinations for your favourite casino games. When it comes to evaluating online pokies sites, here’s what we consider:
- Number and variety of pokies – Part of the fun of playing at pokies sites is the range of games you can try. So, we make sure our recommended sites have plenty to offer across various pokie categories.
- Featured pokie software providers – We always want to see a quality range of games, and checking the list of software providers is how we assess the quality on hand.
- Bonuses for pokies – In this day and age, casinos shouldn’t compromise on bonuses. We start by looking for welcome bonuses with generous terms that are easy to claim. The best pokies sites will offer free slot spins. Other casino bonuses are a plus.
- Security and fairness – We will only consider a pokies site if it has a reputable licence from authorities like the UKGC or MGA. The reason is that these licences mandate online casinos to maintain fairness, meet security standards, and adhere to other player protection measures. So a legit NZ pokie site must be licensed.
- Range of payment options – Banking options are necessary to support your real money pokie gameplay, so we look out for a diverse range of payment methods for depositing and withdrawing. Popular debit/credit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfer solutions should be available.
- Customer support – We’ve played at enough casinos to know just how important customer support is. So, we make sure to check the contact channels and functioning times of the support team. The best customer service is available round the clock and can provide real-time assistance.
Why You Should Play Pokies Online for Real Money in New Zealand
Many sites offer free pokies that you can play without registration. These free versions are great for trying new titles, testing out the in-game features, and just having fun at no risk. However, real money pokies offer unmatched thrill, thanks to the opportunity to win cash. Whether it’s a small return on a successful bet or a progressive jackpot payout, you’ll need to charge up your account with real funds to stand a chance to win.
Another reason to play real money pokies is to get your hands on bonuses and promotions. These incentives are only available for players who have registered and deposited in their accounts. Besides, when you play for real money, you’ll have unrestricted access to games that may be otherwise unavailable.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Real Money Online Pokies
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Play anywhere and anytime with an internet connection | Some games will be restricted for bonuses |
| Play online pokies for real money with no download required | Withdrawing your winnings can take several days |
| Enjoy a massive variety of titles | |
| Claim free spins bonuses dedicated for pokies | |
| Very low betting limits, as low as $0.01 |
Real Money Pokies Bonuses
Playing pokies with bonuses usually means you can double your starting bankroll. Sometimes, you may even get to use this free bonus money without spending any of your own. Here are the best bonuses you can claim:
Pokies Welcome Bonus
New players are the target of the welcome bonus offer at any online casino. A pokies welcome bonus generally offers extra cash on top of your first deposit so that you have more money to play with. The welcome bonus is often referred to as the first deposit bonus, but it can sometimes extend to the second, third, or fourth deposits.
Pokies Free Spins
This is the most popular bonus type for online pokies. Free spins bonuses are basically free turns on the slot machine at the casino’s expense. Anything you win will be yours to keep after you complete the wagering requirements.
Pokies No Deposit
You don’t have to make a deposit to receive this bonus, hence the name. Pokies no deposit bonuses are often reserved for new players, and where they exist, they’re credited to your account after you register. For this reason, they’re a great way to try out new slots sites for free. Due to how valuable no deposit offers are, they often come with stricter terms and conditions, so make sure to learn what they are before you opt-in.
Who Makes Real Money Pokies? – The Best Software Providers
NetEnt
Founded in 1996, NetEnt is an innovator and trailblazer in the online casino industry, specifically within the pokies market. Their greatest achievements include the avalanche reels mechanic, which they launched in the popular Gonzo’s Quest slot, and the crisp and attractive graphic quality that characterises their entire game catalogue.
- Top online pokies by NetEnt – Starburst, Gonzo’s Quest, Divine Fortune, Fruit Shop Frenzy
Microgaming
This developer has released nearly 1000 pokies across all categories. They stand as the leader in progressive jackpots thanks to phenomenal titles like Mega Moolah that regularly pays out life-changing sums. Microgaming’s pokies boast fantastic quality, albeit with low RTPs. Nonetheless, they come with exciting bonus features that enable them to pay nicely.
- Top online pokies by Microgaming – Mega Moolah, Immortal Romance, Break Da Bank, Wheel of Wishes
Pragmatic Play
This company came onto the scene in 2015 and quickly joined the ranks of the top dogs. Pragmatic Play pokies are amazing in terms of graphics, soundtracks, and compelling storylines. From simple classics to video slots and jackpot pokies, they have it all. They offer lots of pokies with high RTPs and high volatility, which are great for big spenders who want to win just as much.
- Top online pokies by Pragmatic Play – Sweet Bonanza, Dog House Megaways, Wolf Gold, Gates of Olympus, Big Bass Bonanza
IGT
IGT’s slots don’t have the best graphic quality, but they provide some of the most memorable gaming experiences thanks to a combination of bonus features and special symbols. They offer lots of free spins that can increase your winning potential when you enter the bonus rounds. They specialise in 5 reel video slots.
- Top online pokies by IGT – Cleopatra, Da Vinci Diamonds, Pharaoh’s Fortune, Pixies of the Forest
Play ‘n GO
The best mobile pokies for real money are from the studios of this Swedish developer. Unlike others who dabble in other games, Play ‘n GO focuses all its efforts on online pokies and constantly delivers high-quality graphics, innovative features, and user-friendly interfaces that run smoothly on both desktop and mobile devices.
- Top online pokies by Play ‘n GO – Book of Dead, Reactoonz, Legacy of Dead, Viking Runecraft
Many other game studios contribute to the range of excellent pokies featured at the top NZ pokies sites. We’ve tried their slots and have loved the experience; we can guarantee you’ll be pleased with them, too. They include:
- Big Time Gaming
- Playtech
- Light & Wonder
- Real Time Gaming
- Novomatic
- Quickspin
- Betsoft
Some Pokies Terminologies – Key Terms for Getting Started
Online gambling jargon can sometimes be confusing when you hear them the first time. We want you to have the smoothest experience every time, so we’ve provided insight into some common online pokies terminologies and what they mean.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Reels | The vertical sections that spin when you play a game. Most pokies have three to five reels. |
| Paylines | These are lines across the reels that determine winning combinations. More paylines mean more chances to win. |
| RTP (Return to Player) | This percentage indicates how much of the money wagered on a pokie is paid back to players over time. Higher RTP means better odds for players. |
| Jackpot | The biggest prize a pokie game offers. Some are fixed amounts, while progressive jackpots grow until someone wins. |
| Wilds | Special symbols that can substitute for other reel characters to create winning combinations. |
| Scatters | Special symbols that trigger bonus features regardless of their position on the reels. |
| Free Spins | A bonus that gives you extra spins at no additional cost. It can often be retriggered. |
| Bonus Round | A special part of the game that often has different gameplay from the main game, offering additional chances to win. It usually activates upon getting a special combination of symbols. |
| Multiplier | A feature that multiplies your winnings by a specific figure. |
| Volatility | This term describes how often and how much you can expect to win during a game. High volatility means less frequent but larger wins, and low volatility means more frequent but smaller wins. |
Tips on How to Win at Real Money Online Pokies
- Look for high RTP games – Pokies with a high RTP are designed to pay more generously over time. So it’s best to stick to these games, especially if you’re a new player. Real money pokies typically have payback percentages between 90% and 99%.
- Don’t just go for jackpots – Real money jackpot pokies, especially the progressive kind, can offer massive payouts. However, the chances of you actually winning are slim since there are thousands of other players also vying for it. You can try jackpot games, but make sure you also play regular games. Non-jackpot games generally have better RTPs.
- Understand variance – There’s no good or bad variance when it comes to pokies. Instead, your winning chances depend on choosing the right volatility level for your bankroll and betting style. For instance, high volatility is better suited for players who want to rake in big wins and have the large enough bankroll to weather the dry spins before that happens.
- Always play the max number of paylines – Some pokies have variable paylines, allowing you to adjust them as you please. It’s a nifty functionality, but it is always best to stick to the max number of paylines. This way, you maximise the number of ways you could possibly land a win.
- Your pokies site matters – Playing at a quality and safe casino is the only way to guarantee that pokies are fair and not manipulated. You can also trust the best NZ pokies casinos to pay your winnings as and when due.
- Look for free spins and bonuses – Free spins bonuses are additional chances to win at no extra cost to you. So make sure you claim these offers where they are available. Don’t forget to check for fair wagering terms and other conditions.
Alternatives to Real Money Pokies
As exciting as pokies are, sometimes you need a break. But this doesn’t mean you have to exit the casino completely. There are several other alternatives that you can try at the top pokies casinos online. They include the following:
Real Money Roulette
Roulette is the closest alternative to pokies because they also have random outcomes and are incredibly simple to play. Read here for more on roulette casinos in New Zealand.
Real Money Blackjack
This card game is another casino favourite that’s easy to love and simple to grasp. You’ll need to put a bit more thinking effort into making the best bets, but players love the challenge. There are multiple variants you can try at online blackjack casinos.
Real Money Baccarat
Baccarat is a game you have to try if you’re a casino player. You simply have to predict which hand will win in each round. A quick look at our guide on how to play baccarat will get you up to speed with the straightforward rules, and you can head to any of the top baccarat casinos to start placing bets.
Real Money Poker
Online poker has different types, from Texas Hold ’em to Caribbean Stud, to Pai Gow, and Three Card Poker. It’s one of the few casino online games where you often get to play against other participants rather than against a dealer. And there are a lot of jackpot cash prizes to be won.
Real Money Pokies FAQ
Is it safe to play real money pokies online?
Yes, it’s safe as long as you play at reputable NZ pokies sites that are licensed and regulated. It’s easy to check for valid licensing information by scrolling to the casino website footer. If there’s no licence, avoid the site.
Can I play real money pokies on my mobile device?
Absolutely! Many online casinos offer mobile real money pokie games. These games are compatible with both iOS and Android devices, so you can play on the go.
What are the chances of winning on pokies?
Winning chances vary based on the game’s RTP (Return to Player) and volatility. Higher RTP games offer better odds over the long term, while volatility affects how often and how much you can win. Outcomes on pokie games are entirely random, though. It’s important to keep that in mind.
Are there bonuses for playing pokies online?
Yes, many online casinos offer bonuses like free spins, welcome bonuses, and no-deposit bonuses specifically for real money pokie games.
Can I try pokies for free before playing with real money?
Yes, most online casinos offer a demo or free play version of their pokies, so you can try them out without risking real money.
What are the best sites to play pokies in NZ?
The best NZ pokies sites are the ones we’ve recommended for you on this page. Our experts have reviewed them so we can guarantee that they are safe, secure and offer fair gaming experiences.
What are the most popular pokies in New Zealand?
There are quite a few fan favourites among Kiwis. Mega Moolah, Book of Dead, and 88 Fortunes are among the top picks.
Are there strategies for how to win real money at online pokies?
Pokies are games of chance, so there’s no guaranteed strategy to win. However, managing your bankroll wisely and choosing games with higher RTPs can improve your gaming experience.