How We Rate Casinos
At AllTheWhile.co.nz, we've developed a comprehensive methodology to evaluate and rank online casinos for New Zealand players. Our ratings are based on extensive testing, player feedback, and compliance verification. Here's exactly how we assess each casino:
Licensing & Regulation
This is our most critical criterion. We only review casinos that hold valid gaming licenses from recognised jurisdictions. We verify licences from:
- Malta Gaming Authority (MGA)
- UK Gambling Commission (UKGC)
- Curaçao eGaming
- New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs (local NZ licenses)
Casinos without legitimate licensing receive significantly lower ratings, regardless of other features. We check licence validity, player protection policies, and regulatory compliance history.
Game Selection & Software Providers
We evaluate the breadth and quality of gaming options available. Our assessment includes:
- Slot machine variety and themes
- Live casino offerings (roulette, blackjack, baccarat, poker)
- Table games (European/American roulette, craps, etc.)
- Quality of software providers (Microgaming, NetEnt, Playtech, Evolution Gaming, etc.)
- Game exclusivity and proprietary titles
- Regular game updates and new releases
We prioritise casinos offering diverse game libraries with titles from multiple reputable providers.
Bonus Terms & Wagering Requirements
We scrutinise welcome bonuses and ongoing promotions with a critical eye toward player value. We examine:
- Transparency of terms and conditions
- Wagering requirements (rollover multiples)
- Maximum cashout limits on bonus winnings
- Game contribution rates (which games count toward wagering)
- Expiration periods for bonus funds
- Fairness compared to industry standards
Casinos with unreasonable T&Cs or hidden clauses receive lower ratings. We favour transparent, player-friendly bonus structures.
Payment Methods & Withdrawal Speed
We test every deposit and withdrawal method available to NZ players. Our evaluation covers:
- E-wallet options (PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, etc.)
- Cryptocurrency acceptance (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.)
- Bank transfers and local NZ payment options
- Debit and credit card processing
- Withdrawal processing times (same-day, next-day, etc.)
- Transaction fees and minimum/maximum limits
- Withdrawal success rates and verification processes
Fast, reliable withdrawals with multiple payment options significantly boost ratings.
Customer Support
We assess customer service quality through direct contact and player feedback. We evaluate:
- Availability (24/7 live chat availability)
- Response times to enquiries
- Communication channels (live chat, email, phone, social media)
- Knowledgeability and professionalism of support staff
- Problem resolution effectiveness
- Support availability in English and other relevant languages
Casinos with slow or unhelpful support receive lower ratings, even if other features are strong.
Mobile Experience
We test mobile functionality extensively, as most NZ players use smartphones. Our assessment includes:
- Responsive web design and functionality
- Dedicated iOS and Android app availability
- Loading speeds and performance
- Navigation ease and user interface design
- Game availability on mobile
- Account management features on mobile
- App stability and crash frequency
Poor mobile experiences result in lower ratings, as we prioritise casinos optimised for on-the-go play.
Responsible Gaming Tools
Player safety is paramount. We verify the availability and functionality of responsible gaming features:
- Deposit limits (daily, weekly, monthly)
- Loss limits and session time limits
- Self-exclusion options
- Cool-off periods and temporary account suspension
- Reality check reminder frequency
- Links to external support organisations (Gamblers Anonymous, Samaritans, etc.)
- Educational resources about problem gambling
Casinos without comprehensive responsible gaming tools receive significantly lower ratings.
Our Rating Scale
10/10 - Exceptional
Elite casinos meeting all criteria with outstanding execution. Highly recommended for all player types.
8-9/10 - Excellent
Very strong across all categories with only minor areas for improvement. Recommended for most players.
7/10 - Good
Solid performance across categories with some notable strengths and weaknesses. Recommended with caveats.
6/10 - Fair
Average performance. May suit specific player needs but has notable limitations.
5/10 - Below Average
Significant weaknesses that may affect player experience. Not recommended without specific reasons.
Below 5/10 - Poor
Serious concerns regarding licensing, fairness, or player protection. Not recommended.
Methodology Notes: Our ratings are updated quarterly to reflect casino changes, new player feedback, and regulatory updates. Each casino is reviewed by multiple team members to ensure accuracy and fairness. We accept no payments from casinos for improved ratings and maintain complete editorial independence.