New Zealand’s casino industry continues to support tourism, employment and government revenue. The Department of Internal Affairs regulates all casino activity. The Gambling Act 2003 governs licensing and operations. Currently, six licensed casinos operate in New Zealand. These properties include Auckland, Hamilton, Queenstown, Dunedin and Christchurch. Total gaming expenditure from casinos reached NZD $639 million in 2023. This figure represents a 4.2 percent increase from the previous year. The sector employs over 2,000 workers across five main regions. Operators now offer full-service entertainment including gaming, hospitality and events.
Here are top casinos in New Zealand based on Revenue and Visitors:
1. SkyCity Auckland Remains the Country’s Largest Casino
SkyCity Auckland leads New Zealand’s gaming market in scale and revenue. The property offers over 2,100 gaming machines and 150 table games. Located in the Auckland CBD, the venue operates 24 hours every day. It includes two hotels, a theatre, restaurants and conference facilities. SkyCity Entertainment Group reported NZD $925.8 million in total revenue in 2023. Of this, a significant portion came from Auckland operations. The site recorded millions of visits from local and overseas guests. SkyCity Auckland also contributed over NZD $40 million in gaming duty.
2. Christchurch Casino Holds Historical Significance and Steady Demand
Christchurch Casino ranks second based on gaming activity and foot traffic. It opened in 1994 as New Zealand’s first licensed casino. The venue offers 500 gaming machines and 36 gaming tables. Located in Victoria Street, it attracts both residents and tourists. Revenue for 2023 reached NZD $71 million. The casino employs 350 people and supports several community events. Its bars and restaurants contribute to the local hospitality economy. Management confirmed strong customer retention post-COVID-19 recovery.
3. SkyCity Hamilton Shows Regional Strength and Diverse Entertainment
SkyCity Hamilton holds third place in terms of earnings and capacity. It operates over 330 gaming machines and 23 table games. The site sits on the Waikato River and includes dining venues and a bowling alley. Revenue reached NZD $62.4 million in 2023. The casino caters to a regional customer base across Waikato and Bay of Plenty. SkyCity confirmed upcoming refurbishments of its gaming floor. Management reported increased visitor numbers during public holidays and sporting events.
4. Dunedin Casino Supports Otago’s Tourism Sector
Dunedin Casino ranks fourth and operates from the Southern Cross Hotel. It offers 180 gaming machines and 12 gaming tables. Management reported NZD $22 million in gross revenue in 2023. Cruise ship visitors form part of the casino’s patron base. The casino contributes to regional tourism and nightlife. It supports local initiatives through the Dunedin Casinos Charitable Trust. The trust distributed NZD $250,000 to community causes last year. The site plans digital upgrades to attract more players in 2025.
5. SkyCity Queenstown Targets International Visitors
SkyCity Queenstown ranks fifth in size and gaming activity. The property features 86 gaming machines and 12 table games. Located near Lake Wakatipu, it serves tourists visiting Central Otago. Queenstown recorded 2.5 million visitor nights in 2023. SkyCity management linked revenue growth to tourism recovery. The nearby Wharf Casino remains closed for review. The company may consolidate operations depending on future demand. International tourism continues to drive seasonal fluctuations in footfall.
Casino Sector Contributes to Government and Community Initiatives
Casino operations generated significant tax revenue in 2023. Duties apply to gross gaming revenue across all licensed sites. These funds support public services and regional development. SkyCity alone paid over NZD $40 million in casino duty. Local charities also receive funds through dedicated trusts. Operators reported increased investment in responsible gambling efforts. SkyCity spent NZD $6.2 million on harm minimisation programs last year. Christchurch and Hamilton sites introduced updated training for staff.
Also Read: Inside Australia’s Top Casinos: Industry Giants Shaping Gaming and Tourism Nationwide
Future Plans Focus on Technology and Experience
SkyCity Entertainment Group confirmed NZD $43 million in infrastructure investment for 2025. Projects include gaming floor upgrades and new hospitality spaces. Christchurch Casino will open a new sports bar by late 2024. Dunedin and Hamilton will implement new digital systems. Queenstown’s operations remain under review. Analysts expect modest growth supported by tourism, events and loyalty programs. Technology and responsible gaming will shape future development across all sites.
