New Zealand is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The Pacific nation has surreal natural beauty, unique wildlife, volcanic mountains, sandy beaches, and welcoming people.
If you plan to visit Kiwi land, this guide is for you. We’ll list the best physical casinos in NZ. We’ll highlight what they offer, both accommodation and casino games.
Additionally, we’ll recommend the best places to visit near the travel destinations we’ve highlighted. Let’s get started.
Sky City Casino Auckland
Auckland is the first city most set foot in after arriving in New Zealand. It is the biggest city in the country and home to the nation’s most prestigious casino: SkyCity Auckland.
The casino is located 30 minutes from the Auckland Airport (by car). It is majestic, beautiful, and armed with hundreds of luxurious rooms. The hotel complex also features restaurants, bars, a gym, a swimming pool, and a spa.
The casino’s gaming floor features 2100 slot machines and 150 tables. You can play video slots, progressive slots, blackjack, poker, baccarat, roulette, craps or bingo.
If your budget allows you to visit just one casino hotel in New Zealand, SkyCity is the best answer. It has more games than any other casino in the country. It has award-winning restaurants. And it has overwhelmingly positive reviews.
For those who prefer the convenience of online gaming, SkyCity also operates an online casino. It offers a wide range of games including live dealer options. Additionally, you may also want to check some of the other reputable online casino providers available in New Zealand.
Things to Do in Auckland
While in Auckland, consider visiting the Sky Tower in the evening. Everyone who’s been to the Sky City says the views are particularly beautiful in the evening. If you’re a hiker, take a short hike to Mount Eden. It is yet another great place to get views of the city.
If you would like to learn Australia’s history, the Auckland Museum is an excellent destination. Another great place to spend your time while in Auckland is the underwater tunnel at Tarlton’s Aquarium.
SkyCity Queenstown
Queenstown is a great place to visit if you’re an adventurous person. While in the city, drop by at SkyCity Casino. It is located at the heart of Queenstown. It features 150 gaming machines, a dozen table games, and live entertainment.
The restaurants at SkyCity Casino offer a wide range of Kiwi delicacies, ranging from fish and chips to Hangi—a special Maori dish. As mentioned, SkyCity isn’t just about gambling.
If you love music, visit SkyCity on the weekend. It hosts a DJ, live bands, and karaoke nights every weekend.
Best Things to Do in Queenstown
If you’re an outdoors person, you’ll love your trip to Queenstown. You can take impeccable photos on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, hike the Remarkables Mountain Range, or visit Kiwi Park to learn more about the famous bird.
Christchurch Casino
Armed with 500 slots and 36 table games, Christchurch is one of the biggest casinos in New Zealand. It is located in the city center of the Christchurch-Canterbury region.
While it’s not as large as SkyCity Auckland, Christchurch is a beautiful casino. It’s budget-friendly and offers plenty of complimentary drinks. The only drawback is that it is small.
Best Things to Do in Christchurch-Canterbury
New Zealand’s largest glacier is located in Christchurch. You can walk, go by boat or take a guided tour to both the Tasman Glacier and Mt Cook. While in the Aoraki region, consider an evening of stargazing at the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.
In the northern part of Christchurch, more than 90 vineyards open their doors to tourists every day. If you’re a teetotaler, consider visiting the beachside. It is packed with activities like whale watching, fishing, and boat riding.
Hamilton SkyCity Casino
Hamilton is a popular casino known for its wide selection of slot machines, high-roller blackjack games, and affordable buffets. Hamilton SkyCity is also a reveler’s dream casino.
If you’re not playing slots and roulette, you can listen to live music, experience fine dining, or watch rugby at a sports bar. The casino doesn’t offer accommodation. But it is surrounded by plenty of top-rated hotels.
Best Things to Do in Hamilton
Hamilton is one of the most beautiful places in the world. If you’re adventurous, you’ll have a wonderful time riding hot air balloons, kayaking, cycling, and surfing. You can also visit the twinkling glowworms at Waitomo or visit a local botanical garden.
Dunedin’s Casino
Officially known as the Grand Casino Dunedin, this establishment is a gamer’s paradise. It features 180 curated slots, 12 table games, and a dedicated poker room with both cash games and competitions.
For added entertainment, Dunedin hosts a DJ every week. Sometimes it features live bands and other events.
Best Things to Do in Dunedin
Dunedin is one of a few places on earth where you can spot yellow-eyed penguins in person, fur seals, and albatrosss. It is also home to the Larnach Castle, a century-old castle known for its high tea parties and beautiful rooms.
As a beach town, Dunedin is a great place to bask in the sun, surf, swim and take board rides. Dunedin is particularly popular for its gorgeous sandy beaches.
SkyCity Wharf Casino
SkyCity Wharf Casino is a smaller casino within Queenstown designed for people who prefer a quiet, intimate gaming experience. It has 70 slot machines, mostly video slots and progressive jackpots.
It also features six table games. It can be difficult to find an available table during the weekends. However, you can book for a spot at the casino’s dedicated poker table. It offers both cash and competitive games with prize pots. Although it is small, SkyCity can be loud and lively when there’s a special performance by a local superstar. It also features a restaurant and bar, meaning you’re not stuck with slots and table games at all times.
Alternatives to New Zealand’s land-based casinos online casinos in New Zealand