As I began my exploration of live poker at Palace Casino, I was eager to discover how this platform stacks up against others in the market, particularly given the current regulations in New Zealand. With the Online Casino Gambling Act 2026 set to introduce local licensing, I was mindful of the implications of engaging with an offshore casino.

Setting up my account was straightforward. The minimum deposit of **$10 NZD** got me started. I made my deposit around 3 PM, and it cleared almost instantly. The layout was user-friendly, and I felt comfortable navigating through various options, including the live poker section where I could choose between three different tables.

One thing that stood out to me was the variety of games available. I opted for a classic Texas Hold’em game at one of the live tables. The dealer was engaging, and the gameplay was smooth. Within a few hands, I realised that the **RTP percentage** was quite favourable at **96.3%**, which generally indicates a good return for players over time.

### Key Features of Live Poker at Palace Casino

• Real-time interaction with live dealers.
• Multiple variants of poker available.
• Responsive customer support.
• Access to a community of players.

While the gaming itself was enjoyable, I did notice a few quirks in the system. For instance, the **wagering requirements** on bonuses were set at **37x**, which is somewhat higher than average. This means that I would have to wager a substantial amount before any potential withdrawal of bonus winnings. However, given that recreational winnings in New Zealand are tax-free, this was somewhat of a consolation.

After about an hour of playing, I decided to cash out some winnings. I requested a withdrawal of **$150 NZD**, which was processed without a hitch. The estimated withdrawal time was indicated as **23-47 hours**, and I found this timeframe reasonable compared to other platforms I’ve tried in the past.

### Pros and Cons of Playing Live Poker at Palace Casino

#### Pros:

• Engaging live dealers enhance the experience.
• Quick deposits and smooth gameplay.
• Variety of poker options to choose from.

#### Cons:

• Higher wagering requirements for bonuses.
• No local licensing, which might concern some players.
• Withdrawal times could vary significantly.

While I appreciated the overall experience, the lack of local licensing is indeed a point to consider. New Zealand’s Department of Internal Affairs has yet to issue any licenses, which makes all offshore casinos, including Palace, somewhat of a grey area. Players should be aware of this when deciding to engage in online gaming.

### Frequently Asked Questions

#### 1. What types of poker games are available?
You can find classic variants like Texas Hold’em and Caribbean Stud Poker.

#### 2. Is there a minimum age requirement for playing?
Yes, players must be at least 18 years old.

#### 3. How do I contact customer support?
Customer support can be reached via live chat or email, usually available 24/7.

In my testing, it was evident that Palace Casino provides a compelling live poker experience. The responsive gameplay combined with the engaging atmosphere makes it a choice for many Kiwi players, even if it operates outside local regulations. Always play responsibly and remember to set limits on your gaming activities. If you need support, the Gambling Helpline is available at 0800 654 655, or you can text 8006 any day of the week.