How We Rate Casinos
At FastPitch, we evaluate every online casino on a comprehensive set of criteria to help New Zealand players find the best platforms for playing pokies and other games. Our methodology is transparent, rigorous, and updated regularly to reflect industry standards in 2026.
1. Licensing & Regulation
We prioritise casinos with legitimate licences from recognised regulatory bodies. We verify licences from the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), Curaçao Gaming Authority, and local New Zealand gaming authorities where applicable. A valid licence ensures player protection, fair gaming, and dispute resolution mechanisms. Casinos without verifiable licences receive significantly lower ratings.
2. Game Selection & Software Providers
We assess the breadth and quality of gaming libraries, including pokies (slots), live casino games, and table games. We evaluate partnerships with reputable software providers such as Microgaming, NetEnt, Pragmatic Play, and others. A diverse selection of games from multiple providers indicates a trustworthy platform with better chances of fair play.
3. Bonus Terms & Wagering Requirements
We carefully review welcome bonuses, ongoing promotions, and their associated terms and conditions. We examine wagering requirements (rollover rates), maximum cashout limits, game restrictions, and expiration dates. Transparent, reasonable bonus terms—such as lower wagering multiples and longer validity periods—are rated more favourably.
4. Payment Methods & Withdrawal Speed
We evaluate the range of deposit and withdrawal options available to NZ players, including credit/debit cards, e-wallets (PayPal, Skrill, Neteller), cryptocurrency, and bank transfers. We assess processing times, fees, and minimum/maximum limits. Fast, reliable withdrawals and diverse payment choices significantly improve a casino's rating.
5. Customer Support
We test the availability, responsiveness, and quality of customer support channels. We look for 24/7 live chat, email support, phone lines, and FAQ sections. We rate casinos higher if support agents respond quickly, professionally, and resolve issues effectively. Poor or limited support availability results in lower scores.
6. Mobile Experience
We assess the functionality and design of mobile platforms, whether through responsive web design or dedicated iOS/Android applications. We evaluate loading speeds, navigation ease, and game compatibility on mobile devices. A seamless mobile experience is essential for modern players accessing pokies on smartphones and tablets.
7. Responsible Gaming Tools
We examine the availability and prominence of responsible gaming features, including deposit limits, loss limits, betting limits, session time reminders, self-exclusion options, and cooling-off periods. We verify links to support organisations such as Gamblers Anonymous and local counselling services. Strong responsible gaming provisions are fundamental to our ratings.
8. Our Rating Scale
10/10 – Excellent: Fully licensed, comprehensive game selection, fair terms, multiple payment options, responsive support, excellent mobile experience, and robust responsible gaming tools.
8-9/10 – Very Good: Licensed, strong game library, reasonable terms, good payment methods, reliable support, solid mobile platform, and good responsible gaming features.
6-7/10 – Good: Licensed, decent game selection, acceptable terms, adequate payment options, responsive support, functional mobile experience, and standard responsible gaming options.
4-5/10 – Fair: Licensed but with limitations, moderate game selection, restrictive terms, limited payment methods, inconsistent support, basic mobile experience, or minimal responsible gaming tools.
1-3/10 – Poor: Dubious or unverifiable licensing, limited games, unfair terms, few payment options, poor support, subpar mobile experience, or inadequate responsible gaming measures.
0/10 – Not Recommended: Unlicensed, unregulated, fraudulent, or poses significant risk to players.
Our ratings reflect current industry standards and player feedback. All reviews are independent and updated regularly. We do not accept payment from casinos for favourable reviews.