There are many reasons to visit New Zealand. Breathtaking landscapes. Rich cultural heritage. Year-round comfortable weather. Yet there's one aspect that travellers can often overlook: that it's a hotspot for gamers.

Whether you're a casual player or a hardcore enthusiast, the country's gaming scene offers a wide array of experiences that cater to all interests. From gaming conventions to online casino games, here's everything you need to know about the gaming environment in New Zealand.

Thriving Video Game Industry

Vibrant, innovative, thriving – there are many positive ways to describe the video game industry in New Zealand. This is supported by several local developers gaining acclaim for their ability to push the boundaries of storytelling and gaming technology. Notable studios like Grinding Gear Games, the creators of Path of Exile, and RocketWerkz have helped put the country on the map as a hub for creative game development.

The thriving nature of this industry is supported by the fact New Zealand hosts several gaming conventions annually. Events like Armageddon Expo and the NZ Games Festival offer gamers the opportunity to immerse themselves in the latest gaming technologies, participate in tournaments, listen to developer talks, and much more. If you're a gamer and have an open schedule, factor in when conventions take place before booking your trip.

Casino Culture

The casino scene is another gaming-based aspect of New Zealand that's thriving. Plenty of land-based casinos are dotted around the country, allowing you to sample the bright lights and luxury in-person. However, if you enjoy casino games, you shouldn't overlook the number of online platforms available in New Zealand.

The added positive of going this route is you can play online casino games in NZ from anywhere in the country. That means whether you're relaxing on Piha Beach or at the top of the Sky Tower, you can still sample your favourite slots and table games. Another positive of online play is the variety on offer. Thousands of games are instantly available, allowing you to jump into the action within seconds.

Board Games and Role-Playing Games

It's not just about video games and casino titles. New Zealand also has a thriving community of board game enthusiasts and RPG players. This is backed up by numerous establishments which support this activity. For instance, the country is home to numerous cafes and shops that sell a wide range of board games and host game nights and tournaments. When travelling, you can do more than just pick up a new game – you can jump straight into the action and meet new people.

As with video games, you can also find a number of New Zealand conventions for board games. One such event is the popular Wellycon. Recognised as the biggest board gaming convention in the country, this twice-yearly event is a must-visit if you have great enthusiasm for board games and want to engage in this hobby even further.

Share this article: