Right, so I get asked this question heaps – what’s the difference between pokies and slots? Fair dinkum, it confused the hell out of me when I first started playing online a few years back. Kept seeing “slots” everywhere but grew up calling them pokies like every other Kiwi. Turns out there’s actually more to it than just different names.
The Short Answer (For Those in a Rush)
Look, if you’re just here for the basics: pokies and slots are essentially the same thing – spinning reels, matching symbols, hopefully winning some cash. The main difference is where you’re playing and what features you get. Pokies are what we call them in NZ (and Australia), while the rest of the world says slots.
But here’s where it gets interesting – and why I spent way too much time researching this stuff.
Why We Call Them Pokies (And Why It Matters)
Been wondering about this for ages, so I actually looked into it. “Pokies” comes from “poker machines,” which makes sense when you think about the old pub machines from back in the day. Most had poker hands as winning combinations.
My old man reckons he was playing pokies at the local RSA in the 80s, and they were proper different beasts compared to what we’ve got now. Simple poker symbols, basic gameplay, and you’d be lucky to win a free beer.
The thing is, when online casinos started targeting Kiwi players, they had to decide: stick with “pokies” to feel local, or use “slots” because that’s what their software calls them. Most went with slots, which is why you’ll see both terms floating around NZ casino sites.
Real Differences Pokies and Slots I’ve Found (After Testing Both)
Spent the last month playing what I’d call “proper” pokies versus international slots, and honestly, there are some differences worth knowing about:
RTP Rates (This One’s Important)
Here’s something that actually matters for your wallet. Traditional Kiwi pokies – the ones you’ll find in pubs and clubs – typically run around 87-92% RTP. Not brilliant, but that’s the reality.
Online slots targeting international markets? Usually sitting at 94-98% RTP. I’ve been tracking my sessions for months now, and the difference is noticeable. That extra 3-5% might not sound like much, but over time it adds up.
Had a proper chat with a mate who works in the industry, and he reckons it comes down to operating costs. Physical pokies machines have heaps more overhead than online slots, so they need bigger house edges.
Game Features and Complexity
Traditional pokies kept things simple – spin, match, maybe trigger a basic bonus. Modern online slots? They’ve gone completely mental with features.
Last week I was playing some slot called “Gonzo’s Quest” (yeah, weird name) and it had cascading reels, multipliers, free spins with different rules, and some avalanche feature I’m still trying to figure out. Would never see that complexity on a pub pokie.
Don’t get me wrong – I like both styles. Sometimes you want something simple after a long day at work. Other times you’re in the mood for all the bells and whistles.
Betting Options
This one’s massive if you’re not a high roller. Pub pokies usually start at 20 cents per spin minimum. Online slots? I’ve found games that let you bet 1 cent per line. Perfect for those of us who like longer sessions without burning through the grocery money.
On the flip side, online slots can go way higher on the maximum bets. Saw one that allowed $500 per spin. Mental.
The Tourist Confusion Factor
Working in hospitality for a few years, I’ve seen heaps of overseas visitors get confused by our pokie terminology. Americans especially – they’ll walk into a pub looking for “slot machines” and get blank stares.
Had one Canadian bloke ask me about “fruit machines” (that’s what the Brits call them), then “slots,” then finally figured out we call them pokies. Ended up having a good laugh about it over a beer.
Point is, if you’re helping out overseas mates or reading international casino reviews, just remember they’re talking about the same thing we are.
Where to Play What (My Honest Take)
For Traditional Pokie Experience: Hit up your local RSA, pub, or SkyCity. The atmosphere’s different – more social, can grab a beer between spins, chat with other players. RTPs aren’t great, but it’s about the experience.
For Better Odds and Variety: Online’s your best bet. I’ve been using a few different NZ-licensed sites, and the game selection is insane compared to what you’ll find in physical venues. Plus, you can play in your undies at 2 AM if that’s your thing (no judgment here).
For Learning New Games: Definitely start online with free play modes. Tried learning some complicated slot features on a $2-per-spin pub machine once. Expensive lesson, wouldn’t recommend.
What Actually Matters for Kiwi Players
After all this research and testing, here’s what I reckon actually matters:
Know Your RTPs: Whether you call them pokies or slots, check the return-to-player rates. Higher is better for your bankroll.
Understand the Local Laws: NZ online gambling rules are pretty specific. Stick to licensed international operators or stick to physical venues. Don’t get caught up in dodgy offshore sites.
Pick Your Poison: Traditional pokies for the social experience, online slots for variety and better odds. Both have their place.
Set Limits Regardless: Whether it’s a $20 note in a pub pokie or your online casino balance, decide what you can afford to lose before you start spinning.
The Bottom Line
Pokies, slots, fruit machines – call them whatever you want. The important bit is knowing what you’re getting into. I’ve had fun with both traditional pokies and modern online slots, but they’re different experiences entirely.
If you’re new to this whole thing, start with free online slots to get a feel for different game types. Then decide if you prefer the pub atmosphere or the convenience of playing at home.
Either way, remember it’s meant to be entertainment, not a way to pay the rent. Trust me on that one – learned it the hard way a few years back.
Sweet as? Now you know the difference, and hopefully you won’t look like a tourist asking for slots at the local pub.
Been playing pokies and slots for about 6 years now, mostly for fun but sometimes for research like this article. Always play within your means, and remember – the house always has an edge, whether you call them pokies or slots.
