Online Poker in New Zealand

Introduction to online poker in New Zealand

Poker has been known for years for its big tournaments with huge prize pools. It is also one of the most popular table games in the casino and many players can’t get enough of it. If you have never played poker in an online casino, it may be a completely new game for you, because it is completely different from the poker you play with friends.

On this page, you can find everything about online poker that all New Zealand providers offer. Some offer more variants and then the regular game disappears. There are so many different rules, bonuses and variants that most players have never heard of. Don’t worry, after reading this article, you will be an expert in the field of online poker!

Legality of playing poker in New Zealand?

Playing poker online is legal for New Zealand residents; however, there are some important rules and conditions to be aware of.

Under the Gambling Act 2003, it is illegal for companies based in New Zealand to offer online gambling services, including poker, to New Zealanders. However, the law does not prohibit Kiwi players from accessing offshore online casinos or poker sites, as long as those platforms are based outside of New Zealand.

This means you can legally play poker online at international poker sites (such as GGPoker, PokerStars, or partypoker) that accept New Zealand players. These sites must be hosted and licensed overseas, typically by reputable regulatory bodies like the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), UK Gambling Commission, or Curacao eGaming.

NZ-based companies cannot legally operate or promote online poker platforms within New Zealand. Unlicensed offshore sites operating without proper regulatory oversight are not recommended, even if technically accessible.

How to choose a real money poker provider?

First of all, you should think carefully so as not to end up with something hopeless. Therefore, pay attention to a few specific tips that our experts have prepared. Thanks to this, you will enter the world of poker with greater ease and confidence.

• License and security
  If you plan to start playing at a casino, first verify the operator’s license. Details about it should be placed in the footer of the page or in the terms and conditions. The provider must have an active license from Curacao, or preferably, from the MGA or UKGC. The security itself should safeguard your data and funds, preventing unauthorized individuals from accessing them. Casinos should use 128- or 256-bit SSL encryption, the TLS 1.2 protocol, and a firewall. It is best if the operator has an active security certificate from iTechLabs or eCOGRA.
• Wide range of poker games
  You need to be able to play as many different variations of this game as possible. First of all, the casino should provide such variations of poker as Texas Hold’em, Omaha, Seven-Card Stud, Five-Card Draw or classic 5-card poker. The more variations of this game, the better. The same applies to the tables provided for entertainment.
• Poker play bonuses
  Here, you can expect welcome bonuses for new players, as well as bonuses for registered users. These can be no deposit bonuses, deposit bonuses, cashback or tournaments. They should be attractive, i.e., not have excessive wagering conditions.
• Different payment methods for Kiwis
  When it comes to New Zealand, we want to see primarily Skrill, POLi, Visa, Mastercard or Paysafecard. These are very well-known and respected payment solutions in our country, so we recommend paying attention to them first.
• Mobile optimisation
  Mobile friendliness is also a top priority. Most players come from their mobile devices, and also in this game, most players can be found on their mobile phones. Additionally, customer service must be readily available to ensure that all your problems can be resolved promptly. It could be a big advantage if this is available 24/7.
• Customer service
  It’s best if it works 24/7, but that’s not always guaranteed. More important is the ability to contact a consultant in New Zealand English, which we particularly value, both via chat and by email.

How to play online poker for real money in New Zealand casinos?

We have put together a step-by-step plan for you to play online poker in New Zealand for real money, such as POLi casino, to make it as easy as possible for you to start playing:

Time Needed: 10 Minutes Tools Needed: Laptop/Mobile Software Needed: Email

Step 1

Choose a trusted NZ-friendly casino

Choose the online casino on this page that offers you the best bonus and follow the link.

Step 2

Start the registration process

Click on the registration button on the homepage of the online casino in question. Often, you can find this at the top right.

Step 3

Fill in your details

Now, follow the entire registration process. You will need to provide your email address, phone number and password. You may also need to verify yourself using IDin. Complete this process.

Step 4

Confirm your email address

Verify your email address by clicking on the link in the verification email you received in your mailbox.

Step 5

Make a deposit

Click on the 'deposit' button and add the desired amount of NZD to your account using your preferred payment method.

Step 6

Choose your poker game

Now that the money is in your account, you can go to the offer and select your game.

Top online poker sites in New Zealand 2025

Bonuses for real money poker players

The fun will potentially become even better for you if you bet on attractive bonuses. However, choosing them is not so easy right away, because first you have to find out what it is all about. That is why we describe the main bonuses that can be found in poker sites.

• Welcome bonus
  A way to attract new customers with a particularly large deposit bonus. You can get a lot of free chips, a large deposit bonus and additional free spins , if you want a break from poker in the form of slots.
• Cashback
  The operation of this bonus is very simple: you play for a specified period (usually a week or two) and receive a partial refund of the money spent on online poker for money. Usually, you can receive from a few to a dozen or so percent of cashback this way, often without having to meet the turnover requirements.
• No deposit bonus
  The name of this promotion says it all: you get free money to play with, without having to spend your own money. You just log in to your account, activate the promotion and collect the bonus. However, before you can withdraw your winnings, you have to meet the turnover requirements, which is not always that easy.
• Tournaments
  This is merely a means to introduce competition among players who enjoy online poker for real money. Those who occupy the top positions can expect various bonuses and cash prizes.
• Deposit bonus
  The promotion works quite simply: you deposit a specific amount and it is increased by a specific percentage using bonus funds. Then you meet the turnover requirements and you can enjoy your winnings.
• Jackpots
  At a poker site you can also choose to play video poker. This is a variant, of which the most popular is the ‘Jacks or Better’. In this game you have to make sure to have the highest card or the best poker hand to win. You do not play against the dealer and if you get the Royal Flush, you have a chance to crack the jackpot! The jackpot is therefore also included in the bonuses that a provider can have.
• VIP Program and other promotional activities
  In addition to the usual promotional actions and bonuses, it is also possible that an online provider has a VIP program. This VIP program is intended for players who regularly play at the provider in question. Not every provider has a VIP program, but a number do. You can then have a chance to win free spins, free credit and much more, at low rules. This as a reward for playing at online poker sites.

Popular variations of real money poker

Poker is definitely one of the most popular card games in casinos, and this is partly due to its diversity. You can find many different variants that approach the game differently, making it easier to choose something that particularly catches your eye. Below we present the main poker variants.

• Classic Five Card Poker
  Probably the oldest form of poker, where you play with 5 cards and then get a chance to exchange any number of them. Here, you need to create the best five-card hand possible. The rules of the game are simple to understand, which is why it is a popular choice among beginners..
• Omaha Poker
  Each player receives four down cards, plus five community cards. Creating the best possible hand is possible with two down cards and three community cards. Omaha is characterized by a lot of dynamics of the game, which is why advanced poker players like it.
• Texas Hold’em Poker
  The most popular poker variant in the world. In it, you receive two hole cards, and then five community cards. During the game, the aim is to create the best five-card hand. Texas hold ’em poker online for money is very often found in tournaments.
• Seven Card Stud
  An interesting variation where you play with seven cards. Three of them are hidden and four are exposed. However, creating the best hand can only involve five cards. You will not find community cards here, which distinguishes the game from other poker variations.
• Razz
  The goal here is to get as low a hand as possible. You are dealt seven cards, and the five lowest-value cards are used to create a winning hand.
• Live dealer poker game
  A popular variation of online poker with a real dealer, where the game is broadcast live. The fun is therefore authentic, resembling real casinos without having to leave your four walls.

Best online poker games

To provide you, as a new player, with the best experience, our team of experts has thoroughly tested all variations of the game. This will provide an overview of the games you can play. We will explain the games, the distinguishing features it offers and the software developer, so you know exactly who made the game:

• Texas Hold’em by PokerPro: Texas Hold’em is the most widely played poker variant in the world and a great starting point for players of all experience levels. Developed by PokerPro, this is a community card game where each player receives two private hole cards and combines them with five shared community cards to make the best five-card hand. The game offers a perfect balance of luck, strategy, and psychology, making it appealing for both casual and competitive players.
• Omaha Poker by NetEnt: Omaha Poker is a fast-paced, action-heavy poker variant designed for more experienced players. In this version by NetEnt, each player is dealt four hole cards but must use exactly two of them, along with three from the five community cards, to form a hand. The rules are similar to Texas Hold’em but with more possibilities and higher-value hands, making it a favourite for those who enjoy tactical depth.
• 7-Card Stud by Microgaming: 7-Card Stud is a classic poker game that doesn’t use community cards. Instead, each player is dealt seven cards — some face up, some face down — and must make the best five-card combination. Microgaming’s version sticks to traditional gameplay and rewards players who are good at memorising exposed cards and reading opponents. It’s ideal for those who prefer slower, skill-based poker.
• Caribbean Stud Poker by Evolution: Caribbean Stud Poker, brought to life by Evolution, is a house-banked poker game where you play against the dealer rather than other players. You’re dealt five cards and must decide whether to raise or fold. The dealer must qualify with at least Ace-King. It’s a fast-paced game that removes bluffing from the equation and often includes the chance to win a progressive jackpot.
• Video Poker – Jacks or Better by Playtech: Jacks or Better is a solo variant of video poker designed by Playtech. It plays like a mix of slots and poker — you’re dealt five cards and can hold or discard any number of them to form a winning hand. Payouts are based on a fixed table, with a pair of Jacks or better being the minimum qualifying hand. It’s simple, accessible, and great for low-stakes gaming.
• Casino Hold’em by Play’n GO: Casino Hold’em, developed by Play’n GO, is a streamlined version of Texas Hold’em where you face off against the house instead of other players. After receiving your two hole cards and seeing the flop, you decide whether to fold or raise. The game includes an optional side bet with large multipliers, making it an exciting, fast alternative for Hold’em fans.
• Triple Card Poker by Evolution: Triple Card Poker by Evolution is a popular, fast-playing variant where you get three cards and try to beat the dealer’s hand. It features side bets like Pair Plus and the 6-Card Bonus, which can pay out even if you lose the main hand. The simplicity and speed make it great for new players who want immediate action without the complexity of traditional formats.
• Oasis Poker by BGaming: Oasis Poker by BGaming is a twist on traditional Caribbean-style poker. You receive five cards and can pay to exchange one or more before deciding to fold or raise. The dealer needs Ace-King or better to qualify. The card exchange feature adds a strategic layer and makes the game more interactive and unpredictable than standard house-banked poker.
• Stud Poker High-Low by Microgaming: Stud Poker High-Low, developed by Microgaming, is a split-pot variant where the highest and lowest hands each win half the pot. This game adds complexity by rewarding both ends of the hand ranking spectrum. Players must balance aggressive play for high hands with cautious strategy to scoop both halves of the pot when possible.
• Heads-Up Hold’em by Playtech: Heads-Up Hold’em is a one-on-one poker game from Playtech that pits you directly against the dealer using standard Texas Hold’em rules. It features side bets such as the Trips Bonus, allowing you to win even if the dealer beats you. It’s a fast, focused game that’s ideal for players who enjoy direct competition and quick rounds.
• Zoom Poker by PokerStars: Zoom Poker, created by PokerStars, is a fast-fold variant that moves you to a new table every time you fold. This greatly increases the number of hands played per hour and eliminates downtime. It’s perfect for players who want to maximise volume, grind rewards, or keep their gameplay dynamic and fast-paced.

Best online poker casino sites to try

Let’s take a look at the top online casinos where New Zealand players can enjoy the most popular and rewarding poker games, whether you prefer traditional Texas Hold’em, fast-paced video poker, or unique casino poker variants.

Online poker: main rules explained

The different variants of poker have different betting rounds, but the two most popular types, Texas Hold’em and Omaha, have the same structure, namely the four betting rounds before the flop, the flop itself, the turn and the river.

1. The dealer deals cards and you look at your own.
2. Now the round begins, and the tour goes clockwise.
3. You can now choose between the following options: Check, Bet, Fold, Call, Raise.
4. If you check, you are saying no to starting the game with a bet. Therefore, this option is only open until the first bet is made.
5. You can only bet if the players before you have not made a bet. After that, the remaining players must call to make the same bet and stay in the game.
6. If you fold, you discard your cards and exit the round. This means you cannot win or participate in the same round again.
7. You call when the players before you have made a bet that you want to match. This means you always match the largest bet.
8. The last option is to raise, which means you match the highest bet, then make an even higher bet. Now the other players have to choose whether to call, raise or fold.

Card values ​​and combinations in online poker

Knowing the values ​​and combinations of cards is extremely important if you want to be successful at online poker. That’s why you can read about it here.

The order looks like this (no. 1 is the best hand):

• Royal Flush – The five highest cards: Ace, King, Queen, Jack, and 10, all of the same suit.
• Straight Flush – Five consecutive cards of the same suit. Example: 5-6-7-8-9 of hearts.
• Four of a Kind – Four cards of the same rank. Example: four 4s.
• Full House – A combination of three of a kind and a pair. Example: three 5s and two 4s.
• Flush – Five cards of the same suit, not in sequence.
• Straight – Five cards in sequential order, but not of the same suit. Example: 2-3-4-5-6 in mixed suits.
• Three of a Kind – Three cards of the same rank. Example: three 4s.
• Two Pair – Two different pairs. Example: two 4s and two 5s.
• One Pair – Two cards of the same rank. Example: two 4s.
• High Card – If no one has any of the above combinations, the highest card wins.

Know your odds of winning

To win at poker, it is really important to have control over your odds, and you must be able to calculate and use the odds to your advantage.

When talking about pot odds and whether they are important to poker players, the answer is an absolute yes! The calculation of pot odds takes into account how many outs you have and can be used to calculate whether it is worth calling and going for a draw later.

Outs are the number of cards that can improve your hand, and are part of the calculations that go into the pot odds. We won’t go into detail about how to calculate the pot odds, as it’s a longer process, but you can use a quick version called the Rule of Two and Four.

It is used to calculate the player’s chance of improving their hand on a draw. You multiply the number of your outs by 4, and then you have an idea of ​​the percentage chance you have of making your hand before or with the River.

Similarly, you can multiply your number of outs by 2 when there is only one card left to deal, which can help calculate the probability of whether you hit the desired draw or not.

Odds of getting specific starting hands

In the table below, you can see the odds of getting the various combinations mentioned above as starting hands. For example, see the odds of getting the dream hand, Royal Straight Flush, in the first round.

Best poker strategies you should know

A sure way to ensure the best results is always to maintain the best conditions. We provide you with this here, offering a review of the two poker strategies you should definitely have in order to optimize your poker game. Practice them with poker for free before trying them out for real money.

Short stack strategy

The short stack strategy is a great strategy for beginners because it is one of the easiest strategies to implement into your game. It is also one of the hardest to beat when done correctly.

The short stack strategy is useful when you have a small stack of chips and your short stack strategy relies on the size of your stack in relation to the blinds.

• Only play good starting hands.
• Bet small before the flop.
• Fold all speculative hands.
• Avoid bluffing and instead only bet on strong hands.

Big stack strategy

When you have a lot of chips (more than your opponents and the largest stack at the table) you can use the Big Stack strategy. Also known as The Big Stack Bully, it is a powerful strategy for increasing the pot size.

• Bet even bigger and show your opponents that you are the one who controls the game.
• Expand your options – also play on smaller pairs and take a few more chances.
• Pressure your opponents and take advantage of the opportunity to scrape in the blinds.
• Keep an eye on other big stacks and apply pressure to the small stacks instead.
• Play smart and avoid using the Big Stack strategy against other big stacks.

Poker betting terms explained

If you’re playing poker online or live in New Zealand, you’ll often hear terms like donk bet, c-bet, or value bet. These phrases describe different types of bets used at various stages of the hand. Understanding them is crucial if you want to read your opponents, make smarter plays, and avoid looking like a beginner.

Here’s a breakdown of the most common betting terms every Kiwi poker player should know:

• Donk Bet
  A donk bet is when a player makes a bet out of position, meaning they bet into the pre-flop aggressor on the flop. It’s often a small bet and historically associated with less experienced players. However, skilled players may use donk bets strategically to disrupt an opponent’s plan or gain information.
• Continuation Bet (C-bet)
  A continuation bet is made by the player who raised pre-flop and then bets again on the flop, regardless of whether they’ve improved their hand. It keeps pressure on opponents and helps maintain the betting lead, often forcing folds from those who missed the flop.
• Overbet
  An overbet is when you bet more than the current size of the pot. In New Zealand’s online poker scene, this is often seen as a bold move — either to bluff your opponent off a hand or to extract maximum value from a strong hand. It’s powerful, but risky if used too often or without purpose.
• Underbet
  An underbet is the opposite of an overbet — betting much less than the pot, typically under 40%. Experienced players can use this subtle move to induce calls, disguise hand strength, or trap opponents into making mistakes.
• Three-Bet (Re-Raise)
  A three-bet refers to a re-raise, usually pre-flop. The name comes from fixed-limit games, where the opening raise is considered the second bet, and the re-raise becomes the “third” (or three-bet). Three-betting is a strong sign of hand strength — or a calculated bluff.
• Value Bet
  A value bet is made when you believe your hand is better than your opponent’s, and you want to get paid. It’s often a smaller bet designed to be tempting enough for a weaker hand to call. Advanced players utilize value betting to consistently extract chips from marginal hands.
• Pot Bet
  A pot bet means betting the exact amount currently in the pot. For example, if the pot is NZ$100, a pot-sized bet is NZ$100. This type of bet applies pressure and often indicates strength, but it can also be used as a bluff against tight players.

Real money poker deposit methods

A well-chosen payment option is very important because it ensures the security and convenience of transactions . That is why we have compiled information on the primary payment methods you will encounter in poker casinos.

• E-wallets – they are fast, secure and allow deposits and withdrawals. You have to create an account to be able to use them. Poles mainly reach for PayPal, Skrill, Neteller and less often MiFinity or eZeeWallet. E-wallets are easy to use and you do not have to use your payment card details.
• Payment cards – these are mainly Visa and Mastercard, which are commonly used payment solutions. They are very convenient and safe, but processing withdrawals with their participation can be slower than with e-wallets or cryptocurrencies.
• Mobile payments – there is a convenient solution for mobile players. They mainly come in the form of Google Pay (for Android) and Apple Pay (for iOS). You can deposit money into the casino quickly, conveniently and safely this way, but you will have to use something else to withdraw.
• Cryptocurrencies – their importance is continually growing in various fields, including the online poker world. Transactions involving them are lightning fast, safe and anonymous. We mainly recommend reaching for Bitcoin, Ethereum or Tether, especially Tether, which is a very stable altcoin.

Play online with POLi and PayPal

The most common payment methods are POLi and PayPal. POLi is one of the best-known payment methods in New Zealand, thanks to fast transactions and similar to those you would do with online banking. That’s why you’ll see POLi offered frequently on the best online poker sites in NZ, especially those tailored to Kiwi players.

PayPal is another well-recognised method, appreciated for its privacy and buyer protection features. When using PayPal, your financial details are never shared with the casino, offering a greater sense of anonymity and security. It’s widely accepted among international online casinos catering to New Zealand players, including top-rated poker platforms.

Other ways to gamble at an online casino that offers this game is gambling with Paysafecard and paying with your credit card.

Leading poker software

Leading software that offers legal poker sites in New Zealand is Evolution Gaming, NetEnt, Pragmatic Play and Quickspin. Evolution Gaming, renowned for its diverse range of games, also provides an exceptional poker experience for experienced players. With the high-quality, live dealers that speak every language, they ensure that you, as a player, get the best experience. Most of these software developers offer separate online poker rooms to play in, making it feel like you are playing in a real casino against other players.

Mobile poker apps

Playing from a mobile device is becoming increasingly popular in New Zealand, which is why every casino in the world is transitioning to a mobile platform. Online poker is therefore increasingly played on mobile devices. All websites of providers are optimized for all types of mobile devices, regardless of the operating system, whether iOS, Android, or Windows. If you want to try online poker for real money, you can usually do so with payment apps such as POLi and PayPal.

Real money poker vs free poker

Both forms of gameplay have their advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, it would be best if we compare their main differences.

Online poker tips

A good knowledge of the rules is not everything, because you should also take care of planning a sensible strategy. This way, you control your budget better and give yourself a chance to win more. You can find our advice on this subject here.

1. Start by setting a specific budget and sticking to it to avoid unnecessary losses.
2. Only play poker games whose rules you are actually familiar with.
3. Pay attention to your opponents’ movements to better predict their actions.
4. Remember to play with a detached mind while sticking to your established strategy.
5. Learn to bluff to better control the game.
6. Try not to play too many hands and focus on stronger cards.
7. Try not always to play the same way, which will make it harder for your opponents to predict your moves.

Final thoughts on playing poker for real money

It is very important to approach online gambling responsibly. This way, you will ensure that you do not lose money unnecessarily and do not lead to a situation in which you will develop an addiction. Therefore, do not hesitate and immediately start treating poker for money wisely, using useful solutions in online casinos. You will find limits on expenses, budget or playing time.

In addition, do not forget to play wisely, i.e., without making hasty decisions. As a last resort, you can reach for self-exclusion or use the help of organizations that help fight addiction, such as Gamblers Anonymous or GamCare. We also support responsible gambling and recommend testing only casinos that we have personally reviewed.

Online poker for money in New Zealand is an excellent way for both beginners and advanced players to have fun, thanks to the numerous game variations and their various possibilities. To achieve success, we encourage you not only to adopt an effective strategy but also to choose a reputable gambling platform. Check out our honest and unbiased casino reviews to make your gaming experience even better!