Online Pokie Fever
New Zealanders love their gaming machines. Forty percent of Kiwis gamble every week, and they are spending an average of NZ$41 every time they do. That’s some serious action. And nothing is more popular in New Zealand than the pokie.
The slot machine was originally developed for players who might be intimidated by games such as baccarat or craps. The mechanics of the pokie have changed with technology, but the game itself has basically remained the same. From its humble lever and reel roots to the electrical version with its photo diodes to the sophisticated computer models, the slot machine is still the most popular casino game in the world.
Let’s Play Slots Games!
Slot machines, whether online or in person, have the same concept. Pull a lever, push a button or touch the screen to start the “reels” spinning. Most games have either three or five reels. On each reel is a series of pictures. Traditional images include fruits, dollar signs, bars and bells. New games feature celebrities or a common theme such as mermaids or sports cars. Line up combinations of matching images, and you win!
Slots games are usually either flat top/straight slot or progressive. Straight slots games give the same pay-out each time they hit. Progressive slots games increase until a player wins. Progressives often link several machines to each other or multiple online players. Some slots games require you to make the maximum bet in order to hit the big jackpot, so make sure you pay attention to the rules of each game.
Casinos often tout their pay-out percentage. If a casino says their payback percentage is 90%, this means that over the course of time the casino will pay 90% of what they take in back to the players. This isn’t a guarantee for each machine on a given day, however. It’s a verified average. But just know it’s an average over millions of spins.
Kiwi Friendly?
With a couple of exceptions, online gaming is illegal in New Zealand. But don’t despair! It’s not illegal to gamble on a website that originates outside the country. Do an internet search for “New Zealand Online Gaming,” and you’ll find several sites that recommend legal places for Kiwis to gamble online.
There are several important factors to consider. Security is a big one. Reputable sites will have the Seal of Approval from eCOGRA. Legitimate sites are audited monthly by independent third party companies.
They use RNG (Random Number Generator) programming as well as multiple layers of encryption to protect the financial information of both the casino and their players. Most sites will take credit cards, eWallet options, Click2Pay, Citadel and wire transfers.
The good news is that pokies are incredibly popular, and due to Microgaming programming, the options are mind-boggling. All Slots Casino, Spin Palace, Platinum Play Casino, All Jackpots Casino and Mr. Green Casino are friendly to New Zealanders. Unlike standard live casinos, online casinos often offer up to 400 different slots.
Everyone, whether beginner or high roller, can find a pokie to their liking. And online slots games want you. They offer a myriad of bonuses and extra rewards to entice you to sign up and encourage you to keep playing. First-time matching deposit rewards are common as are bonus rounds, VIP rewards, birthday specials, and exclusive weekly promotions.
Get in on the Action!
Online gaming is a fabulous way to enjoy the high-powered action of the latest pokies whenever and wherever you want. Your favourite slots are just a click away.