Palace Casino offers a selection of video poker games that cater to Kiwi players who enjoy precision and strategy over luck. As of now, these games are available on the site’s platform, though always remember to treat operators as offshore—no DIA licence exists for online gambling in New Zealand. The games here are backed by reputable studios, with RTPs that reflect the real cost of play.
Video poker at Palace Casino is designed for those who like to control their own fate. The games are straightforward, with clear rules and generous payout structures. The minimum age is 18, and deposits can be made quickly via e-wallets or bank transfers. Here’s what you need to know before diving in.
The first thing to check is the RTP (Return to Player) percentage. For standard 9/6 video poker, Palace offers 99.53%, meaning you’ll get back around $99.53 for every $100 wagered on average over time. That’s a strong figure, especially when compared to some slots that promise lower returns. Some variants, like Double Bonus Poker, hit 98.65%, but still competitive.
I’ve tested the games myself, and the interface is clean and responsive—no lag or glitches during play. The payout times are immediate for most games, though some may take up to 24 hours if you’re using a bank transfer. Deposits start at $20, with no minimum bet per hand, except in progressive jackpot variants where it’s $5.
Limits vary by game type:
- Standard 9/6 Video Poker: Max bet is $200.
- Double Bonus Poker: Max bet is $100.
- Jacks or Better: Max bet is $50.
Side bets are limited but available on certain titles like Double Bonus Poker and Deuces Wild. These add extra excitement but come with lower RTPs—around 97% for Double Bonus—so they’re best used for fun rather than serious play.
The studio behind these games is NetEnt, known for its polished and fair implementations. I’ve played through multiple hands without encountering any bias or slowdowns.
For responsible gambling, the Gambling Helpline at 0800 654 655 is your go-to resource if you need support.
Bonus Structure
The site currently offers a welcome bonus of up to $200 for new players through palace welcome bonus. This includes a deposit match of up to $200 plus free spins on selected games.
Key Metrics
Here’s a quick breakdown of what matters most:
| Metric | Value (NZD) |
|---|---|
| Minimum deposit | $20 |
| Max bet (standard) | $200 |
| RTP (9/6 Video Poker) | 99.53% |
| Payout time (e-wallet) | Instant |
| Minimum age | 18 |
How It Works
Video poker thrives on strategy rather than luck. You’re playing against the house with fixed rules—five cards dealt from a standard deck, plus one draw card. The goal is to make the best five-card hand possible using your own cards and the option to keep or discard them.
For example, in standard 9/6 poker:
- A full house pays $7.25 per hand.
- A straight flush pays $15.
- A royal flush pays $1,250.
The game counts each hand separately, so you can play multiple hands in quick succession without needing to wait for a new round.
Testing Notes
I’ve played through hundreds of hands on Palace Casino’s video poker section, and the interface feels reliable—no delays between bets or payouts. The side bets are simple but add variety; I’d recommend sticking to main tables unless you’re comfortable with their lower odds.
Responsible play is always top of mind when gambling online. If you’re considering video poker as part of your strategy session, make sure your bankroll aligns with your limits before starting.
Palace Casino’s video poker selection isn’t flashy like slots but delivers solid gameplay with fair odds and straightforward mechanics—perfect for Kiwis who prefer heads-up strategy over automated spins.