Learning Casino Etiquette in New Zealand
Whether you are going to be playing in the casino of the famous SkyCity brand or you are visiting any other land-based gambling establishments in New Zealand, whether you are an absolute beginner in casino games or you are an experienced gambler returning to the blackjack table, the knowledge of casino etiquette will definitely help you out!
Casinos in New Zealand try their best to maintain an open, sociable atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable and welcome. However, there are some unwritten rules that should be considered, especially if you want to avoid a possible impression of a total newbie at the table!
Casino Etiquette in General and Basic Rules at the Table
Casino etiquette may be important in many aspects, and no matter how much people may deny the importance of this point, it can take you pretty far on the floor of any gambling establishment. First, as a general rule, you have to wait for a hand to finish to join the table. Moreover, you cannot touch your chips after the moment you made your bets because, in some casinos, this simple action might lead to your expulsion from the casino!
Never criticise other gamblers’ decisions regardless of how strange it seems to you. If you are not sure about how some games work — especially poker or roulette — observe other players and dealers for a while or just ask your dealer’s advice regarding any particular issue.
It is similar to the games of one of the best online casinos in New Zealand, Zodiac Casino, when you have to be well-prepared to start the game; thus, do not hesitate to consult the dealers, who are always ready to help you!
How To Dress In The NZ Casino?
New Zealand casinos, by and large, are relatively easy-going establishments, however, there are certain guidelines that still have to be observed. Specifically, in terms of attire, most casinos would recommend sticking to the ‘smart casual’ look. That entails wearing either collared shirt/dresses or a neatly ironed pair of pants and shoes.
Whereas during daytime hours, it should not be hard to make your way into one of New Zealand’s land-based casinos sporting a regular t-shirt and a pair of sneakers, evening hours usually mean more rigid implementation of a specific dress code policy. So, it would be wise to familiarize yourself with the required dress code prior to visiting one of New Zealand’s gambling destinations.
Get more detailed information about dress codes of various casino establishments in our Casino Dress Code Guide.
Tips and Tipping in the NZ Casinos: An Overview
Although not something that is very commonplace in the New Zealand gambling scene, tips are always welcome in case you had success playing in the games. Neither dealers nor waiters/waitresses would ever expect anything, however, in case you are winning or were especially fortunate, sliding a few chips to the dealer after a successful game round is considered quite polite.
More information regarding when it may be necessary to give tips is provided in our Casino Tipping Guide.
First Things First: Age Restrictions Explained
Every single casino operating in New Zealand requires its customers to be at least 20 years old. Even walking through the floor of the casino is strictly prohibited to people under the age of 20, and casinos like SkyCity Casino Queenstown that fail to abide by the law could face hefty fines from the New Zealand Gambling Commission.
Thus, before entering a casino, you would always have to present a form of photo identification such as a passport, an NZ driver’s license, or a Kiwi Access card. Without a valid photo ID, it simply would not be possible to gain access to any casino premises.
Read more about proving your age in our Casino Age Limit Guide.
How to Play Smart: Responsible Gambling and Reward Systems
Gambling is meant for entertainment purposes, and one should definitely never view it from a business angle. Some good gambling manners include playing responsibly, being aware of your limits, taking occasional breaks, and allowing other people to enjoy their time there as well.
Thankfully, nowadays almost all top NZ casinos offer loyal customer schemes that reward responsible gaming with such bonuses as points, which can later be exchanged for free meals, gambling chips or any other bonuses!
Find out everything about joining the loyalty scheme and using it to gain some extra rewards by visiting our Loyalty Programs guide page.
Summary: Play Responsibly and with Etiquette
Even though we have touched upon some basic points related to casino etiquette, please note that it is not about following strict and boring guidelines. It is more about ensuring that you enjoy your time on the casino floor as much as all other guests. When you are heading out to the local land-based casino to play pokies, wear proper attire and respect all employees and other customers alike!
Gambling should only ever be viewed as a form of fun; entertainment, and never a way to make money, or for financial gain. If you find yourself chasing losses, unable to stop, or expecting to win, you may be exhibiting signs of problem gambling. If, at any point, you feel that you have a gambling problem, stop immediately, check out our Responsible Gambling page, and reach out to organisations and charities like New Zealand’s Problem Gambling Foundation. Help and support is available.
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