New Zealand has a rich history of gambling, dating back to the 1830s when the first horse racing events were held. Over the years, gambling has become a significant part of the country’s culture, with land-based casinos becoming increasingly popular. In this article, we will explore the top 10 land-based casinos popular with New Zealanders and the history of gambling in the country.
SkyCity Auckland
SkyCity Auckland is the largest and most popular casino in New Zealand, with over 2,100 gaming machines and 150 table games. The casino is located in the heart of Auckland’s central business district and offers a range of dining options, entertainment, and accommodation. SkyCity Auckland opened in 1996.
Christchurch Casino
Christchurch Casino is the South Island’s premier gaming destination, with over 500 gaming machines and 36 table games. The casino is in the historic Victoria Street precinct and offers a range of dining options and live entertainment. Christchurch Casino opened in 1994 and has since become a popular destination for gaming enthusiasts in the region.
SkyCity Queenstown
SkyCity Queenstown is located in the scenic resort town of Queenstown and offers stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains. The casino offers a range of promotions, gaming options, including over 86 gaming machines and 12 table games. SkyCity Queenstown opened in 2000 and is a popular destination for tourists visiting the area.
Dunedin Casino
Dunedin Casino is in the historic Southern Cross Hotel building in Dunedin’s city center. The casino offers a range of gaming options, including over 180 gaming machines and 12 table games, as well as a range of dining options and live entertainment. Dunedin Casino opened in 1999 and has since become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
SkyCity Hamilton
SkyCity Hamilton opened its door in 2002, located in the heart of Hamilton’s city center and offers a range of gaming options, including over 330 gaming machines and 23 table games. The casino also offers a range of dining options and live entertainment.
Skycity Wharf Casino
Skycity Wharf Casino is located on the Queenstown waterfront and offers stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range. Since opening in 2011, this casino has been offering a range of gaming options, including over 75 gaming machines and 6 table games.
SkyCity Casino – Queenstown
SkyCity Casino – Queenstown is located in the center of Queenstown and offers a range of gaming options, including over 86 gaming machines and 12 table games. The casino also offers a range of dining options and live entertainment. SkyCity Casino – Queenstown opened in 200, being the millennium casino.
SkyCity Hamilton Poker Room
The SkyCity Hamilton Poker Room is in the heart of Hamilton’s city center and offers a range of poker games, including Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and Seven-Card Stud. The poker room hosts regular tournaments and is a popular destination for poker enthusiasts. The SkyCity Hamilton Poker Room opened in 2007 and it has become a popular destination for poker enthusiasts.
SkyCity Wharf Casino – Poker Room
The SkyCity Wharf Casino Poker Room is located on the Queenstown waterfront and offers a range of poker games, including Texas Hold’em and Omaha. The poker room hosts regular tournaments and is a popular destination for poker enthusiasts. The SkyCity Wharf Casino – Poker Room opened in 2011.
Skycity Casino – Darwin
Although not located in New Zealand, Skycity Casino in Darwin is a popular destination for New Zealanders visiting Australia. The casino offers a range of gaming options, including over 600 gaming machines and 30 table games. The casino also offers a range of dining options and live entertainment. Skycity Casino – Darwin opened in 1983 and has since become a popular destination for gaming enthusiasts in the region.
History of Gambling in New Zealand
As mentioned earlier, gambling has been a part of New Zealand’s culture since the 1830s when the first horse racing events were held. Over the years, gambling has become increasingly popular, and a range of gambling activities have been introduced. In the early 1900s, lotteries were introduced as a way to raise funds for charitable causes. In the 1950s, slot machines were introduced, known locally as “pokies,” and have since become a popular form of gambling in the country.
The Gambling Act of 2003
In 2003, the New Zealand government introduced the Gambling Act, which provided a framework for regulating gambling activities in the country. The act established the New Zealand Gambling Commission, which is responsible for regulating and overseeing all gambling activities in the country. The act also provided for the establishment of the Problem Gambling Foundation, which offers support and assistance to individuals affected by problem gambling.
