If you've ever explored online casinos catering to New Zealand players, you’ve probably noticed that slots are called “pokies” instead of the more common term used in other parts of the world. But where did this term come from, and what kinds of casino games do Kiwis love the most?
In this article, we’ll uncover the history of the word “pokies,” the most popular casino games in New Zealand.
Table of Content
- The Origin of the Term “Pokies”
- What Types of Pokies Do New Zealand Players Love?
- Real Estate-Themed Pokies at Otherworld Casino
- Why New Zealand Players Love Online Pokies
- How to Choose the Best Online Pokies in New Zealand
- Final Thoughts: Pokies and the Future of Online Gaming in New Zealand
1. Why Are Slots Called Pokies in New Zealand?
The term “pokies” is a New Zealand and Australian slang word for slot machines, short for “poker machines”. While the game itself doesn’t always have a connection to poker, early slot machines in the region were originally based on five-card draw poker, leading to the name.
- In the early 1900s, mechanical poker-based slot machines became popular in Australia and New Zealand, and the term “poker machine” was shortened to “pokie.”
- Over time, the word stuck and became the go-to term for all slot machines—whether they were based on poker or not.
- Today, “pokies” is the standard term used in New Zealand and Australia, both for land-based slot machines and online slot games.
2. What Types of Pokies Do New Zealand Players Love?
New Zealanders have a strong gambling culture, and online casinos offer them a wide variety of pokies to enjoy. Some of the most popular types of online pokies among Kiwi players include:
a. Classic 3-Reel Pokies
Simple, retro-style slot games that resemble the old-school pokies found in pubs and clubs. They typically feature fruits, bars, and lucky sevens and are popular among players who enjoy a nostalgic, straightforward gaming experience.
b. Video Pokies (5-Reel Slots)
Modern video pokies offer advanced graphics, exciting themes, and immersive gameplay. These games often include bonus rounds, free spins, and special features that add extra excitement to every spin.
c. Progressive Jackpot Pokies
Kiwis love the thrill of chasing massive jackpots, and progressive pokies provide exactly that. The jackpot grows every time a player makes a bet, sometimes reaching millions of dollars. Popular progressive games often have networked prize pools, meaning players from different casinos contribute to the growing jackpot.
d. Megaways Pokies
One of the biggest trends in online gambling, Megaways pokies offer hundreds of thousands of ways to win on every spin. These games feature randomly changing reels, creating an unpredictable and highly engaging experience.
e. Themed & Branded Pokies
New Zealand players love pokies based on movies, TV shows, and famous brands. These games feature high-quality visuals and audio, making them incredibly fun to play.
3. Real Estate-Themed Pokies at Otherworld Casino
For players looking for something different, Otherworld Casino offers a unique twist on online pokies—a real estate speculation-themed gaming experience.
- Fantasy Real Estate™ lets players trade in and out of virtual property markets while playing a fast-paced, provably fair game of chance.
- Skyline is inspired by classic Crash-style games, where players watch their bets rise with the city skyline before cashing out.
- Tycoon’s Territory combines pokies with a Mines-style strategy, allowing players to uncover valuable properties while avoiding financial risks.
With Otherworld Casino, players can enjoy classic pokies while exploring new, strategic gaming opportunities that blend luck, skill, and real estate speculation themes.
4. Why New Zealand Players Love Online Pokies
a. Easy to Play & Fun
Pokies require no special skills or strategies, making them perfect for casual players looking for instant entertainment.
b. Huge Jackpots & Exciting Features
From free spins and wild symbols to expanding reels and progressive jackpots, pokies offer plenty of ways to win big.
c. Fast-Paced & Mobile-Friendly
Since most New Zealand players prefer mobile gaming, online casinos ensure that pokies run smoothly on smartphones and tablets.
d. Crypto-Friendly Payments at Otherworld Casino
Many Kiwis prefer fast and secure payments, which is why Otherworld Casino supports Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies for instant deposits and withdrawals.
5. How to Choose the Best Online Pokies in New Zealand
With thousands of pokies available, how can players find the best ones? Here are key factors to consider:
- RTP (Return to Player) Rate: Look for pokies with an RTP above 96% for better chances of winning.
- Volatility Level: Low volatility games pay frequently but in small amounts, while high volatility games offer bigger but less frequent wins.
- Bonus Features: Choose pokies with free spins, multipliers, expanding wilds, and bonus rounds for extra excitement.
- Game Developer: The best pokies come from top software providers like NetEnt, Microgaming, Pragmatic Play, and Play’n GO.
- Casino Reputation: Always play at licensed, trusted casinos like Otherworld, which offers secure gaming, fast payouts, and unique real estate-themed pokies.
6. Final Thoughts
New Zealanders have a strong passion for pokies, and the term has been part of the country's gambling culture for over a century. Today, Kiwi players enjoy a wide range of online pokies, from classic three-reel games to cutting-edge Megaways and progressive jackpots.
For players looking for a fresh take on pokies, Otherworld Casino offers a unique real estate speculation-themed gaming experience that blends the thrill of slots with the strategy of real estate speculation.
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