Best Mobile Poker Apps in New Zealand (2023)

Best Poker Apps in New Zealand

Some decades ago, Poker gaming reigned supreme at land-based casinos. Nonetheless, this changed after a Poker professional — Chris Moneymaker — ranked #1 in the 2003 WSOP (World Series of Poker) tournament after qualifying from an online Poker site.

His total win? $2.3 million!

Moneymaker's win sparked interest in online Poker as many people wanted to tread his path to get a place in WSOP and win the coveted prize. 

The "Moneymaker effect" remains a thing to date. As a result, many Kiwis are seeking out iGaming sites to get their Poker journey started and win seismic amounts.

Using these applications, your Poker adventure is easy and convenient compared to what's obtainable on most casino websites. 

If you're looking for an app to ignite your Poker skills as a gambling Kiwi, this review grants you context into the top three Poker variations bound to set you on the right path from start to finish.

We'll also delve into crucial factors to consider if you'd like to go the DIY route to sift out an alternative that fits your preferences to the "T."

Ready to know more? Let's dive in!

Top 3 Poker Apps for Kiwis

Playing your favourite Poker games via a web browser is fun. Nonetheless, if you'd like to keep your wagering candle lit up on the go, engaging a Poker application is the best medium for that

Thankfully, iGaming platforms are doing all they can to meet up with popular demand by curating apps for iOS and Android devices. 

Here are our top three picks:

888poker App

888poker set sail in 2002, committed to grant gamblers access to an exciting and rewarding Poker journey. To step things up a notch, this platform has developed a dedicated app available on Android and iOS devices.

The 888poker app greets bettors with an attractive and easy-to-navigate graphic interface. Catering to over 10 million users, this software gives Kiwis full access to an excellent array of games, including classics like Texas Hold'Em and Omaha Hi-Lo.

You’ll also find other alternatives like Blast and SNAP. 

Punters can also play 24/7 cash games. If tournaments tickle your fancy, you can participate in variations such as Sit & Gos and Mystery Bounty. The tourneys feature cost-effective buy-ins and if you rank high after a stint, you'll gain access to a sizable chunk of the prize pool – with some alternatives reaching 10,000x your buy-in. 

It gets better:

Gambling Kiwis can play at 888poker for real money or free mode to hone their Poker talents. Players seeking aid can access responsive customer support mediums, including email and FAQs. 

Additionally, site-related payments are straightforward. Players can make deposits and withdrawals via Visa, Mastercard, Skrill, and Neteller.

Security-wise, the 888poker app gets the job done. For context, you can set up biometric or password locks to safeguard your wagering profile. Using top-tier add-ons like the "emoji chat," you can interact with other bettors in an exciting manner.

If you'd like to switch things up a bit and play slots and live casino games, tap on the Casino button at the "tail end" of your device's screen. 

Pros

• Fast set up
• 24/7 customer support
• 100% free to download
• Intuitive and navigable user interface
• Decent array of Poker alternatives
• Compatible on Android and iOS devices 

Cons

• No live chat support
• Limited payment alternatives 

How to Install the 888poker Application

Android Devices

1. Go to your phone settings
2. Click on security and select Chrome
3. Scroll to the middle and check Allow from this Source
4. Visit the 888poker official website
5. Click on the "Install App" button featured at the page's top part
6. Allow the app to download
7. Once the download is complete, head to your web browser's download segment and click on the APK file to install the 888poker app on your device
8. Upon installation, launch the app
9. Afterward, click on Register to create a profile and start playing

iOS Devices

1. Search for the 888poker app on your app store. For context, the application is tagged "888 Poker — Texas Holdem Online" on the iOS app store
2. Once you've found it, click on the Install icon
3. Upon installation, launch the application
4. If you haven't registered, click Register and go through the platform's sign-up process
5. Once you're done, make a deposit. If you'd like to play for free, click the Hamburger icon at the top left corner and click on "Play Money"

PokerStars App

PokerStars reigns "primus inter pares" for virtual Poker gaming globally. Since their 2001 inception, PokerStars has been on an "upward trajectory" and it's no surprise they've sought to heighten the thrill with apps for iOS & Android devices.

The PokerStars app holds its spot at the top with a vast array of Poker games spanning across Texas Hold'Em and Omaha.

Players can join millions of users to access the world’s revered poker tournaments, including formats like the World Championship of Online Poker (WCOOP) and Spring Championship of Online Poker (SCOOP). 

Playing on the PokerStars application is safe. Fairness is also a norm as the operator integrates an RNG on all its games. That way, no one has an undue influence on gameplay, EVER!

If you encounter issues during app use, 24/7 customer support is available to resolve your issues. On the app, you can make deposits and withdrawals speedily using mediums like Visa, Mastercard, Skrill, and Skrill 1-Tap.

Do you have snooping individuals around? PokerStars understands how frustrating this issue can be. As such, they've integrated biometric locks into their application. Once you set-up these security add-ons, your account becomes impenetrable by any unauthorised party.

Pros

• Gameplay is available in different languages and currencies
• Booming client traffic
• Access to numerous Poker games and tournaments
• Security add-ons to prevent unauthorised entry
• Multiple banking alternatives

Cons

• Doesn't accept cryptocurrency deposits and withdrawals

How to Install the PokerStars App

Android Devices

1. Head to the Google Play store and search for PokerStars. Insert the keyword "PokerStars Poker" to access the correct alternative
2. Click on Install. This process might take 2 to 5 minutes, depending on your Internet connectivity
3. Tap the "New to PokerStars? Sign Up" icon to commence registration. Hit Finish to conclude the process
4. After sign-up, make a deposit to play your favourite Poker tables for Real Money. Conversely, if you're a newbie, you can strengthen your Poker skills by clicking on "Explore PokerStars"

NOTE: If you can't find the PokerStars Android app on Google Play, visit this URL to download the app's APK and install accordingly. 

iOS Devices

1. Open your App Store and insert "PokerStars Poker" keyword into the search bar
2. Now, click on "Install." Note that you might be required to input your Apple credentials to kick-start download
3. Once installed, sign in or create an account
4. Make a deposit
5. Go ahead and explore the games lobby

PartyPoker App

Established in 2001, PartyPoker had the virtual Poker market on lock for over 5 years until the "UIGEA 2006" Act removed the site from the United States. However, PartyPoker has since marked a resurgence, with Poker offerings available in numerous jurisdictions.

To make Poker gaming interesting, PartyPoker curated a unique app for betting Kiwis. For context, NZ players can access cash games, SPINS, tournaments and fast forward with the tap of a button!

To make the mobile Poker journey wholesome and fun, PartyPoker introduced these changes:

• A new portrait layout to enable one-handed gameplay
• Availability of significant events from the flagship series for on-the-go gameplay
• Opportunity to earn in-game "Diamonds" after completing set tasks
• Rabbit hunt with earned Diamonds to view cards that would have been dealt
• Multiple emojis to express yourself during gameplay
• Ability to play up to 4 tables on one screen

Besides these add-ons, players with issues can access 24/7 customer support channels. Additionally, deposits and payouts are straightforward with banking methods such as MasterCard, Visa, and Bank Transfers.

Pros 

• Opportunity to play poker anywhere and anytime
• Safe and secure payment alternatives
• Emojis for exciting interactions
• Robust games collection to explore
• Rich promotional and loyalty benefits
• User-friendly software

Cons

• Doesn't offer cryptocurrency payments
• Design could do with a tint of modernity 

How to Install the PartyPoker App

Android Devices

1. Visit the link — https://www.partypoker.com/en/p/mobile — and click on the "Download Now" button
2. Once the APK file is downloaded, head to your browser's downloads segment and click on it to kick-start installation
3. If your device doesn't permit downloads from unknown sources, head to Settings and click on Applications
4. Toggle on the "Allow From Unknown Sources" add-on
5. Launch the PartyPoker app and commence gameplay

iOS Devices

1. Visit the App Store and search for "PartyPoker LIVE"
2. Click on the install icon
3. After installation, launch the app and create an account
4. Make a deposit
5. Start playing tournaments and cash games

NOTE: If you'd like to engage the Poker titles available at PartyPoker for free, click the "Menu" icon and toggle  Real Money to Play Money. 

How to Choose the Best Poker App for Android and iPhone

Like most decisions, choosing a Poker app requires a thorough consideration of crucial factors that guarantee you the best experience. 

Notable mentions include:

Usability and Features

When picking a mobile Poker app to punt, go for apps with easy-to-use add-ons. The user interface should be intuitive and navigable. 

On your preferred Poker app, players should be able to find different game alternatives and sections with ease. Also, the software's visual and audio quality should be captivating and clear.

Security

Registering and transacting on Poker software involves information transfer. As such, choose a reliable product with top security measures. Usually, Poker apps utilise SSL encryption to safeguard user data.

Good Traffic

Traffic is a vital factor to consider when choosing poker apps to engage. Sites with large user traffic indicate an authentic and fun destination to play for real money. 

Punters using these apps can enjoy Poker gaming with a vast array of players, effect wins and process payout requests with little to no trouble.

On the other hand, a Poker app's traffic being poor is a direct result of bad performance that invariably leaves patrons unsatisfied. 

Payment Methods

Deposits and payouts are core components of punting on mobile Poker apps. Thus, iGaming platforms must provide reliable and secure payment channels for their patrons to transact quickly. 

Also, the number of banking alternatives is crucial. It'll be best to choose a Poker app that integrates channels across credit & debit cards, eWallets, and cryptos. 

Promotion and Welcome Bonuses

Before setting sail with an app, consider its promotional offers. Different Poker apps have diverse incentives for  new and existing players. 

These offers edge you closer to decent winnings when playing Poker for real money.

Mobile Poker Apps Vs. Mobile Poker Sites

Mobile poker apps and sites originated from a desire to make online Poker gaming convenient. Both mediums allow you to play Poker for real money on-the-go. 

However, Poker apps and sites have notable pros and cons. 

Here's a peek:

Pros and Cons of Poker Sites

Pros

• Doesn't require installation
• You can access your account via any web browser
• Quicker loading times
• Numerous bonuses

Cons

• Inadequate security add-ons

Pros and Cons of Poker Apps

Pros

• Mobile Poker apps are faster
• It’s easier to personalise Poker apps
• Security add-ons like biometric and fingerprint locks are available 
• Unique bonuses not available at Poker sites

Cons 

• Limited Poker library 
• Processes like site-related transactions and customer support access redirects to the platform's site

Final Words

Mobile poker apps make it possible for Kiwis to access their favourite Poker games using their mobile devices. 

Nonetheless, the right Poker application for real money gaming is tasking. To sieve out the right alternative for your wagering journey, consider the factors we've listed in this guide. 

Using these crucial metrics, 888poker, PokerStars and PartyPoker ranked at the top of our listing. 

Integrating high-quality Poker games and tournaments, secure banking mediums, and 24/7 customer support, you can have an immersive and exciting Poker journey right from your home's comfort.

Remember to gamble responsibly!