If you have never played pokies before, the most useful things to know are simple: you must be 18+ for pub and club pokies or 20+ for a casino, every spin is random, and the game is designed to keep a share of what you stake over time. Go in with a fixed budget, choose a low stake and treat the session as entertainment you are paying for. Here is what to expect on your first visit.
Before you go
- Pick your budget and time limit. Write them down or set a phone alarm. Leave bank cards at home if that helps.
- Bring ID. At SkyCity Auckland, accepted ID includes a current passport, a current NZ or Australian driver licence, a current NZ firearms licence or a current overseas national identity card.
- Check the dress code for casinos. SkyCity asks for neat and tidy clothing, with no hi-vis vests, gang insignia or (outside the Poker Zone) hats or sunglasses.
- Know which kind of venue you are visiting. Pubs and clubs (Class 4) and casinos run under different rules.
Pubs and clubs vs casinos
| Pubs and clubs (Class 4) | Casino | |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum age | 18+ | 20+ |
| Maximum stake | $2.50 per play under current Class 4 rules | Not subject to Class 4 limits |
| Maximum prize | $500 per play; linked jackpots up to $1,000 | Not subject to Class 4 limits |
| Where proceeds go | Net proceeds to authorised community purposes | Casino operator |
For many beginners, a pub or club is a lower-stakes place to start. If you would like to see a casino, our SkyCity Auckland pokies guide explains what is on the floor.
Your first session, step by step
- Choose a simple game. Classic-style games with clear paylines are easier to follow than feature-heavy ones.
- Read the info screen. It lists symbol values, how free spins trigger and the stake options.
- Set the lowest comfortable stake. Check the total bet per spin shown on screen, not just the coin value.
- Play at a relaxed pace. Pause between spins now and then and keep an eye on your balance.
- Cash out at your limit, whether you are up or down.
For a deeper explanation of reels, wilds, scatters and features, read how to play pokies.
Terms you will hear
- RTP (return to player): a long-run theoretical average across millions of spins, not a prediction for your session.
- Volatility: how wins are spread. Low volatility means smaller, more frequent wins; high volatility means longer dry spells and occasional bigger wins.
- Free spins: a bonus round triggered in the game, usually by scatter symbols.
- Linked jackpot: a prize pool shared across several machines.
Beginner mistakes to avoid
- Believing a machine is “due” after a run of losses.
- Raising your stake to win back what you lost.
- Using the ATM for “just one more” top-up.
- Playing when tired, upset or after several drinks.
Thinking about online pokies?
Online pokies are moving into a licensing regime under the Online Casino Gambling Act 2026. From 1 December 2026, unlicensed operators must stop offering online casino gambling to New Zealand customers. Read our online pokies guide before signing up anywhere.
If pokies stop feeling like fun, take a break and talk to Gambling Helpline Aotearoa on 0800 654 655 (free, 24/7). Our responsible gambling guide has more tips.