If you're a poker enthusiast looking for the best sites in New Zealand, you're in for a treat. The digital realm has brought the thrilling world of poker right to your doorstep, and there's no shortage of online poker sites eager to cater to Kiwi players.
It's not quite as clear cut as other regions, with online poker not being regulated in New Zealand. That's not to say it's illegal, but it just means you should take extra care when picking an online poker site to play on.
But we'll get onto all that later. So read on to discover all your options. We'll give you the best poker sites to play for real money in New Zealand, and explain why they're good and how to get started.
Best New Zealand Online Poker Sites - PokerNews Recommendations
Let's get into it! At PokerNews, we have over two decades' experience reviewing poker sites. But we don't just read about them, we're poker players ourselves, so we actually play on all the sites regularly. That means we have a good indication of what makes a good poker operator.
Of course, determining the best poker site is subjective. But below, we'll give you all the details needed to make an informed decision, as well as our top picks for the best New Zealand poker sites.
Best New Zealand Poker Sites - At a Glance
Here is a quick overview of the top 4 best online poker rooms to play real money poker in New Zealand.
What are the Best Online Poker Sites in New Zealand?
PokerStars and GGPoker are just two picks for the best online poker sites in New Zealand.
PokerStars is the veteran of the industry. It's been around even longer than PokerNewsand is still going strong, offering one of the most comprehensive online poker experiences around.
Elsewhere, GGPoker is an excellent choice of poker room. Although the brand doesn't quite carry the same heritage as Stars, it's become one of the best online poker sites in a short space of time - and shows no sign in slowing down.
Both are available to Kiwis, but there are also a few other sites that we can recommend.
New Zealand might not have its own, distinct online poker market, but that doesn't mean there aren't options for you Kiwi players. Several overseas operators allow New Zealand players, so you can still play on some of the biggest global poker sites like GGPoker and PokerStars.
Not every site available to you will be safe and secure though, so make sure you only play on sites we recommend - we will only promote sites that are legit and completely safe to play at.
Launched in 2017, GGPoker is known for its quirky, unique gameplay style. But don't let the cartoon avatars, dynamic graphics and emoticons fool you - this is a serious poker site for serious players.
Like every other site, GGPoker hasn't launched in New Zealand due to the regulatory landscape in the country. Instead, Kiwi players can play of the international version of the site, connecting with poker players worldwide and competing for the biggest prizes in the game.
Top 3 reasons we love GGPoker:
WSOP Satellites - You can satellite directly into the biggest live poker festival on the planet, the World Series of Poker in Las Vegas! There are an array of different satellite tournaments, including FREE WSOP Express tournies.
Comprehensive Rewards System - Newly updated for 2026, GGPoker's rewards program is the most detailed around. With multiple tiers and achievable levels, the site offers potentially lucrative rakeback for regular players.
Unique Gameplay - GG didn't play it safe. It broke the mold when it came to the online poker experience, opting for dynamic animations and cartoon-like graphics - but it works so well.
The Best GGPoker Bonus
The best GGPoker bonus in New Zealand is the $600 welcome bonus.
As with PokerStars, GGPoker follows its counterpart in offering a $600 bonus on new players' first deposits. Simply click the link below to get started. All you have to do is create your free account and decide how much you want to deposit - minimum $10. Your deposit is matched 100% up to $600 as a bonus.
The bonus releases into your playable balance in $1 increments for every $5 paid in rake from real money games. You have 90 days to play through and release the full bonus, which is again achievable.
#2. PokerStars in New Zealand
Pros
Free poker games for beginners
The site is busy 24 hours per day every day
Widest range of game variation in the industry
The most reliable software on the web
Home of the Sunday Million, SCOOP and WCOOP
Cons
Reduced loyalty rewards
High skill level among players
PokerStars is the industry giant. Launching in 2001, many poker sites have come and gone since then but PokerStars has remarkably remained at the very top of the industry all this time. It accepts New Zealand players on its global site, so you've got access to one of the most well-rounded poker rooms out there.
In short, PokerStars just does everything very well. It has a large daily tournament schedule, offering MTTs with large fields at all stakes pretty much around the clock. If you want a variety of formats and games, it has that too. Promotions, weekly rewards, satellites to larger tournaments, you name it, you'll find it at
PokerStars.
Its biggest appeal, though, is its software. It's no surprise, given PokerStars' longevity in the industry, that the software provides a super smooth, streamlined experience. It rarely crashes and the all-round UX of the site, including navigating the lobby and while you're playing at the tables, is exceptional and easy.
Top 3 reasons we love PokerStars:
Reputation and Trustworthiness - PokerStars has earned a sterling reputation over the years for its integrity, security, and fair gameplay. It's one of the most trusted and established names in the online poker industry.
Variety of Games - PokerStars offers an extensive range of poker variants, from the classic Texas Hold'em and Omaha to unique games like Spin & Go. No other site comes close in terms of offering Mixed Games. This variety ensures there's something for every skill level and preference.
The best PokerStars bonus in New Zealand is the $600 welcome bonus.
New depositing PokerStars customers can claim a welcome bonus worth up to $600. Download PokerStars via PokerNews, create your free account and decide how much you want to deposit. Your deposit is matched 100% up to $600 as a bonus. In fact, your first three deposits in the first 60 days after making your first deposit are matched up to a combined total of $600.
The bonus releases into your playable balance in $5 increments each time you generate 75 redemption points, which are earned via real money play. What's more, you have four months from when you first deposit to clear your bonus - so this is very achievable.
#3. 888poker in New Zealand
Pros
Great mix of tournaments inc PKO, Mystery Bounty and Freerolls
Only online poker site offering daily Mystery Bounty MTT
A superb tournament schedule for all bankroll sizes
Fast-fold poker available, known as "Snap"
Satellites to qualify for major live events
Cons
Only Hold'em and Omaha games offered
VIP scheme not very rewarding unless a very high volume player
888poker is another long-running online poker platforms and is accessible to players in New Zealand. The site operates internationally, meaning Kiwi players compete in a global player pool rather than a segregated market.
The difference, though, with the others on this list is that 888 is a gambling brand that later branched into poker, rather than being a dedicated poker operator from the outset. But don't mistake this for being a bad thing. Given its diversified offering (across sports, casino and poker), 888poker is often overlooked by more serious players and as such attracts more beginners and recreational players. This makes for softer competition!
Software-wise, 888poker is clean and beginner-friendly. The mobile app runs smoothly on iOS and Android, and the built-in features like Snap Poker (fast-fold format) keep things moving.
Don't underestimate 888. If you're looking to play poker more recreationally, or just want to improve your edge by competing with weaker players, 888poker is a great option for Kiwis.
Top 3 reasons we love 888poker:
Beginner-Friendly Environment - 888poker is known for its welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal platform for beginners. The software is user-friendly, and there are ample opportunities to learn and improve your poker skills through various resources and tutorials.
Innovative Features - 888poker constantly introduces innovative features and game variations, keeping gameplay fresh and exciting. Their unique software innovations, like "BLAST" tournaments, add a new dimension to online poker.
Strong Community - 888poker fosters a tight-knit and friendly community of players. The site's focus on creating a positive social experience means you can enjoy not only competitive poker but also build connections with fellow players
The Best 888poker Bonus
The best 888poker bonus in New Zealand is the $1,000 welcome bonus.
Making a deposit with the bonus code "WELCOME100" grants you a 100% up to $1,000 bonus on your first deposit. $10 of the bonus money is released into your playable account balance each time you reach 100 Bonus Points; you receive two Bonus Points for each $1 of rake you generate at the cash game tables.
This bonus is incredibly generous and well worth taking advantage of. Click the link in the widget below to get started. Then you just need to signup and make a deposit!
#4. WPT Global in New Zealand
Pros
Online home of the World Poker Tour
Large, recreational player-heavy cash game traffic
Excellent Welcome Bonus
Big Prize pools on tournaments
Smart AI limits number of pros at each cash table to 2
Cons
Limited high-stakes action
Mobile-first design
WPT Global is available to players in New Zealand, offering access to a large international player pool. Unlike ring-fenced markets, Kiwi players compete against opponents from around the world, which means stronger guarantees, more game variety, and consistent tournament traffic.
The site's main plus point is its tournaments, particularly progressive knockouts (PKOs) and branded festival series tied to the World Poker Tour. Buy-ins range from micro-stakes to high rollers, with solid value in low- and mid-stakes MTTs.
The software is modern and built primarily for mobile, though desktop play is also supported. The interface is smooth, simplified, and clearly designed to appeal to recreational players. While we think the likes of 888poker, GGPoker and PokerStars are ultimately better options, WPT Global isn't too far behind and offers a lot to like for less serious players.
Top 3 reasons we love WPT Global:
Truly International - While the other sites on this list are international, operating across multiple regions in several continents, they don't quite match the reach of WPT Global. As the name suggests, it truly is a global operator, available in over 130 countries across the world!
Live-Poker Satellites - For those of you that like the real-life feel of the felt, the tension and the soothing sound of chips being shuffled, WPT Global successfully bridges the gap between live and online poker. It runs several, affordable online satellites to its plethora of live events.
Bonuses and Promotions - Frequent bonuses, cashback rewards and promotions make sure there's always some value on the site. In particular, WPT Global's tournament leaderboard promotions are great ways for grinders to potentially boost their bankroll.
The Best WPT Global Bonus
The best WPT Globalbonus in New Zealand is the $3,000 welcome bonus.
Yes, you read that correctly. We saved the best bonus to last, as
WPT Global offers New Zealanders an incredible $3,000 as the welcome bonus. The one caveat is that this is actually split into two separate bonuses - $1,500 for casino and $1,500 for poker, but it's undoubtedly one of the best-value bonuses around!
Like the others, all you have to do is click the link below to signup and then choose how much you deposit. However much you choose, you'll get it matched up to 100%!
How to choose the Best New Zealand Online Poker Site
As we've mentioned, each online poker site in New Zealand is vastly different to one another, making it essential that you choose the right one suited for you. That means there's no one-fits-all site that will be perfect for all players. Several factors might dictate your choice of site, which we will outline below.
First, you should check if the operator has a valid gambling license. Rest assured that every online poker room you see PokerNewspromoting is fully legal and regulated.
2. Look for Available Games
Second, look at the selection of games available. This includes the cash game and tournament stakes, as well as formats and poker variants on offer. An New Zealand online poker site may look perfect for you, but then you later discover it does not have much Pot-Limit Omaha cash game traffic and that is your favorite game.
3. Check Bonuses and Promotions
You should also consider the bonuses and promotions an online poker room has. Such bonuses should not be the be-all and end-all when choosing a poker room, but they can often give your bankroll a significant boost, or keep you motivated to grind away the hours at the tables.
4. Read PokerNews Reviews
Last but certainly not least, ensure you read the PokerNews online poker site reviews. Our team of industry experts go through each online poker room with a fine-toothed comb, highlighting each site's positives while informing you about the negatives. We want you to enjoy your time playing online poker, which is why our reviews are up-to-date and impartial.
5. Consider Customer Support
Furthermore, look for a site offering around-the-clock customer support, be that either by email, live chat, or telephone. Issues and problems are rare when playing at top-tier online poker sites, but having a solid support network provides you with peace of mind.
6. Test the Site
Last but not least, it's testing the site. If all other attributes are there but the site itself has clunky software or offers gameplay you can't get on board with, this is a major red flag and something that might make you reconsider playing with that operator. If you don't want to commit real money to test a site, most operators will offer some sort of free play that closely emulates their real money poker games. This will either be through free poker tournaments or a dedicated free play section of the site that uses play chips.
Once you're happy, all that's left to do it hit the tables!
Don't get put off at the prospect of having to pick a poker site - it's way easier that it might seem. Just determine first what type of poker you most like playing (MTTs, cash games, SitNGos). Then understand why you're playing. Are you looking to make money, have fun or just practice your poker skills?
Once those points are established, it should be much clearer which site is best for you. And remember, you're not just limited to playing on one site!
Getting Started - How to Play Online Poker in the New Zealand?
Ready to go? Once you've picked a suitable New Zealand poker site that's available, it's easy to get started! All you have to do is follow these quick steps and you'll be bossing the tables in no time!
Pick a Site
Register for an Account
Verify Your Identity
Deposit and Claim Bonus
Start Playing!
1. Pick a Site
Hopefully we've given you enough of an indication which New Zealand poker site will be best for you. If you're still unsure, you can't go wrong with either PokerStars, GGPoker or 888poker. To get started, click the links in the widget below, or scroll up the page to signup to another New Zealand poker site. Don't forget, you can sign up to multiple operators at once!
2. Register for an Account
Next up is registering for an account. It can seem daunting but in reality, this is a very easy process. Just provide your name and usual contact details, address and select a username and password. That's pretty much it.
3. Verify Your Identity
Next up is verifying your identity. This must be done to make sure you're of legal age to gamble in New Zealand (18+), but it's also fairly straighforward. You'll need some form of ID, such as a passport or driving license. Some sites may also ask you to provide proof of address. You'll usually be verified within 24 hours, but we've often found it can be much quicker.
4. Deposit and Claim Bonus
Once verified, the hard work's all done and you're nearly good to go. Just deposit funds into your account through the various payment methods available, including debit card, bank transfer and PayPal - though methods might vary slightly by operator.
Be sure to check our bonus page to make sure you're not forgetting to claim any signup bonus offers. Most sites will give you a bonus on your first deposit, but some will require promo codes to be input during the deposit process. So make sure you don't miss out on some bonus funds as they're well worth taking advantage of!
5. Start Playing
Once your ID is verified, you've deposited funds and claimed any bonuses available, you're all set! Now just find a cash game or tournament you want to play and start crushing it at the tables!
New Zealand Online Poker Regulation
Online poker is currently legal in New Zealand, but the market is not locally regulated.
So, what does this mean? If you hear not regulated, alarm bells might instantly ring - as they should. But there's no need for you to be worried if you're a poker player in New Zealand. While the country itself isn't regulating poker, most of the operators you can play at are regulated elsewhere, overseas.
However, this is changing in the near future.
New regulatory framework was planned for New Zealand in 2026. This would tighten restrictions for all gambling operators (not just poker), protect players more and unveil harsher rules for advertising. It has since been pushed back and won't be rolled out in the country until early 2027 - at the earliest. So for now, nothing will change.
How exactly things will change for online poker when the new regulations come in is currently unclear. Early indications suggest that just 15 licenses will be on offer, so we might see heavy competition from gambling operators to provide their services in New Zealand. Stay tuned to PokerNews (and this page in particular), where we will update you with any further information as soon as we get it.
What we know so far about the new regulations coming to New Zealand's online gambling landscape...
👉 No locally regulated market expected until 2027 at the earliest.
👉 Potentially just 15 licenses on offer to gambling sites wanting to operate in NZ.
👉 You can still legally play online poker.
👉 Difficult to predict the impact on online poker, with the new regulation focusing primarily on online casino gambling.
New Zealand Poker Sites FAQs
Can you play online poker in New Zealand?
Yes, you can play online poker in New Zealand. Online poker sites like PokerStars and 888poker are the most popular. However, you should also check the legality of playing poker in the country you're based in before making an account.
Can I play on PokerStars in New Zealand?
Yes, PokerStars is legal and available in New Zealand
Can I play online poker tournaments in New Zealand?
Yes, many poker sites offer an array of online tournaments.
Can I play online poker cash games in New Zealand?
Yes, many poker sites offer an array of cash games with varying stakes.
Is online poker regulated in New Zealand?
Yes, online poker sites that are available in New Zealand are regulated - but just not by a local, NZ regulator. Most sites are instead regulated overseas.
What's the best poker bonus in New Zealand?
The best poker bonus in New Zealand is undoubtedly at WPT Global. The site offers new players a 100% matched deposit bonus of up to $3,000 - split evenly between poker and casino.
