New Zealand is a country of nearly 5.4 million people and its government takes a very particular stance on online casinos and games-of-skill.
Gambling regulators in the country tend to protect online poker players, by allowing them non-professionals tax-exemptions for their winnings. While the government does not mind its citizen gambling online, it does however legislate against local poker and online casino operators.
This has led local operators to register off-shore, and share the New Zealand market with well established international sites.
Read on to learn more about poker and some of the best online casinos offering their services to the country.
The Online Poker Laws Of New Zealand
Prior to the current legislation, New Zealanders adhered to three acts related to gambling:
- The Racing Act of 1971
- The Gaming and Lotteries Act of 1977
- The Casino Control Act of 1990
Gambling was permitted under the law, as long as it was beneficial to the community. With the advent of the internet and then online wagering, New Zealand’s government updated its legislation to the Gambling Act of 2003.
This new act made it illegal for most local enterprises to offer real-money gambling services to New Zealanders.
Luckily for online poker players and gambling fans, the law does not prohibit New Zealanders from playing through businesses registered outside of the country. Sites may not host their domains locally either, they must do so internationally.
The only two associations exempt from this rule are the New Zealand Lotteries Commission and TAB, which is the country’s racing and sports betting agency.
With unrestricted gameplay since 2003, New Zealanders have taken full advantage of online poker courses and classes to improve their skills.
A New Zealander At Your Table
Unsurprisingly, you might have played a hand of poker alongside a New Zealander on an online casino and not even known it.
Did You Know: that New Zealanders have it good when it comes to their access to online poker tables and casinos. South Korean laws are even stricter, with gamblers only allowed at one of the country’s land based casinos and generally prohibited from online gambling, as well as gambling when abroad.
Most Popular Online Casinos And Poker Rooms
New Zealanders have legal access to all the same online casinos and poker tables that you do. One of the most famous New Zealand poker players is Lee Nelson, with winnings estimated between $ 1.7 and 2.5 US Dollars.
Here is a list of some of the most popular online casinos and poker sites that New Zealanders have access to:
1. Kiwislots.nz, is an online platform that allows local gamblers access to numerous recommended sites. The website rates gaming titles, lists bonuses and provides a great overview. Ratings are meticulously crafted bearing the following factors in mind:
- Ease of Registration
- User Experience
- Customer Support
- Mobile Experience
- Unique Site Features
They also include a list of online casinos that New Zealanders should avoid playing on. Check them out when you’re next in the mood for an immersive gaming experience, backed by research and reviews.
More and more women are joining online poker tables and casinos. A part of the reason for this shift is the improved social camaraderie.
2. PokerStars, PokerStars is the largest online poker room in the world. It attracts many New Zealand poker fans to its platform, through great bonuses and rewards programs. The high level of competition on the site brings skilled poker players forth, so be sure to come prepared.
Visitors will be treated to a variety of games, such as Stud, HORSE, 8-Game poker, Hold’em and Omaha. Many tables are open 24 hours a day and cater to players seeking high stakes action.
3. 888 Poker, has the second largest following in New Zealand by traffic. Smaller numbers of players allow for a less competitive environment, making this ideal for New Zealand players that are new to the game or just want a relaxed round.
Bet sizes and pot sizes are lower than what you might find at PokerStars, allowing users to gamble without breaking the bank.
4. partypoker, is another New Zealand favorite. Residents can expect great bonuses, such as the cashback deal. With the site hosting tournaments for those wanting the thrill of real competition.
Responsible Gambling
New Zealand gamblers should always adhere to responsible gambling practices:
- Be sure to check that the online casino or poker site is licensed. This is one of the most important criteria as it guarantees that funds are not instantly lost on deposit and that winnings are actually received by the player.
- Online gambling addiction can be managed. Ask for help if you are under pressure or uncertain about your gambling habits. Proper sites will always offer advice, information and resources to gamblers at risk. There are many organizations dedicated to aiding those with gambling addictions.
To Sum Things Up
Online gamblers will always find a way to enjoy their favorite pastime. New Zealanders are no exception, gladly accepting local laws and regulations, finding international alternatives and benefiting from the state approved tax exemptions.
Online gambling and poker are fun ways to practice skills, build a community and de-stress. Be sure to always gamble responsibly and appreciate the player in the ‘seat’ next to you, you never know, they might be a New Zealander.
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