Gambling is an extremely popular pastime in New Zealand. According to statistics, about 94 percent of people ages 18 and up have gambled at some point in their lives in New Zealand. More amazingly, about 40 percent of New Zealand’s population gambles at least one time per week or more.

A Popular Pastime

The most popular game played in New Zealand is the Lotto. Other popular games include betting on other lotteries and raffles, Instant Kiwi, and Telebingo. New Zealanders also like to place bets on horse and dog racing and to play on gaming machines that are set up in casinos and other locations across the country. On average, New Zealanders spend about 41 dollars per month on gaming of various sorts.

Casinos and Gaming

New Zealand is home to many different casinos. A couple of the most popular ones are profiled here.

SKYCITY in Auckland, located between Federal Street and Victoria Street, is a popular destination for gamers and bettors. The casino is open 24 hours a day each day and boasts 53,886 square feet of games and betting machines. The casino features 1,647 slot machines and 110 table games. The property also has nine restaurants and a hotel featuring 344 rooms. SKYCITY offers 30 blackjack tables with bets ranging from five dollars to 2,500 dollars. The casino also features 17 roulette tables with two dollar to 200 dollar bets and over 110 seats for bingo. The casino boasts several restaurants including deli food, fast food at the Noodle Bar, and bar food and drinks at the Theatre Bar.

The Casino even has a health club, convention space, and theater.

New Zealand also features horse tracks, including harness racing at Manukau T.C. on Symond’s Street and thoroughbred racing at Pakuranga Hunt on Wellesley Street. Locals and tourists alike will find a niche when it comes to gaming in New Zealand. Boasting over 61 casinos and gaming facilities, New Zealand is a favorite destination for gambling during international travel. Whether gamers want to place bets on a horse or a card, it can be accomplished when gaming in New Zealand.