How We Rate Casinos

At Local Artisan, we've developed a comprehensive methodology to evaluate online pokies and casinos operating in New Zealand. Our ratings are designed to help Kiwi players find safe, fair, and entertaining gaming platforms. Here's how we assess each casino across eight critical categories.

1. Licensing & Regulation

We prioritise casinos with legitimate licenses from recognised regulatory bodies. We verify licenses from:

• Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) – One of Europe's most stringent regulators
• UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) – Highly respected for player protection
• Curaçao eGaming License – Established offshore authority
• New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs – Local NZ gaming licenses where applicable

Licensed operators demonstrate commitment to fair play, player safety, and responsible gaming practices. We reject unlicensed or unverifiable casinos immediately.

2. Game Selection & Software Providers

We evaluate the breadth and quality of gaming options available:

• Slots/Pokies – Variety, RTP percentages, and game features
• Live Casino – Quality of live dealers, game coverage, and streaming reliability
• Table Games – Blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and other traditional games
• Software Providers – Partnerships with leading developers (Microgaming, NetEnt, Pragmatic Play, etc.)

We assess game variety, fairness certifications (RNG testing), and exclusive titles that enhance player experience.

3. Bonus Terms & Wagering Requirements

We analyse casino promotions with a critical eye toward player value:

• Bonus Terms & Conditions – Clarity, fairness, and accessibility of T&Cs
• Wagering/Rollover Requirements – Whether requirements are realistic and transparent
• Maximum Cashout Limits – Restrictions on bonus winnings
• Game Contributions – Which games count toward wagering requirements

We flag bonuses with predatory terms and highlight offers that deliver genuine value to players.

4. Payment Methods & Withdrawal Speed

We evaluate payment flexibility and processing efficiency:

• Cryptocurrency Options – Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other digital currencies
• E-Wallets – PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, and regional providers
• Bank Transfers – Direct deposits and wire transfers
• Withdrawal Speed – Typical processing times from request to receipt

We test withdrawal processes personally and note any delays, fees, or friction in the system.

5. Customer Support

We assess the quality and availability of player assistance:

• 24/7 Live Chat – Availability and response times
• Email Support – Quality of responses and resolution timelines
• Phone Support – Accessibility and multilingual options
• Responsiveness – How quickly and thoroughly staff address player issues

We contact support ourselves and evaluate their knowledge, professionalism, and helpfulness.

6. Mobile Experience

We test the casino's mobile offering across multiple devices:

• Responsive Design – Smooth functionality on phones and tablets
• Dedicated Apps – iOS and Android application quality and features
• Game Performance – Loading times, stability, and graphics on mobile
• Navigation – Ease of accessing features, accounts, and support on smaller screens

With most NZ players gaming on mobile devices, this category carries significant weight in our ratings.

7. Responsible Gaming Tools

We verify the presence and effectiveness of player protection features:

• Deposit Limits – Daily, weekly, and monthly spending caps
• Self-Exclusion – Easy access to temporary or permanent account closure
• Cooling-Off Periods – Mandatory breaks from gaming
• Reality Checks – Session time reminders and loss tracking tools
• Support Resources – Links to problem gambling services and counselling

Responsible gaming features are non-negotiable for our recommendations, especially for NZ operators.

8. Our Rating Scale

We rate each casino on a scale of 1 to 10, reflecting overall suitability for New Zealand players:

• 9–10 (Excellent) – Outstanding in most categories; highly recommended for NZ players. Strong licensing, excellent games, fair bonuses, fast withdrawals, and robust player protection.
• 7–8 (Very Good) – Strong across key areas with minor weaknesses. Suitable for most players seeking quality and safety.
• 5–6 (Good) – Solid fundamentals but notable gaps in one or more areas. May appeal to specific player preferences but carries mild reservations.
• 3–4 (Fair) – Significant concerns in multiple areas. Not recommended unless players have specific requirements met elsewhere.
• 1–2 (Poor) – Serious deficiencies in licensing, fairness, or player protection. We do not recommend these casinos.

Our ratings are updated regularly to reflect changes in casino operations, regulatory status, and player feedback. All reviews are conducted independently and reflect the genuine experience of New Zealand players.