This is the third Skycity brand casino we’re reviewing and it is the smallest one we’ve come across. The good news is that the Skycity brand is a reputable one and this casino in particular might not be anywhere near as big on the amount of casino games like its bigger siblings – Auckland and Hamilton – but it’s got a serious ace up its sleeve. The Skycity Wharf Casino is situated in the exclusive Steamer Wharf complex which means going to this quaint yet scenic casino will land you some exquisite views. You’ll get a great lakeside view while being able to enjoy 86 machines and a total of 6 gaming tables. As we said, not big on games, but big on sights and sounds. In fact, the Wharf is a somewhat more leisurely casino. It’s also open from 12 noon to 4am, 7 days a week so players don’t have to wait until after dark to enjoy all it has to offer.
The Skycity Wharf Casino offers players 86 machines of which the most are pokies and 6 table games, although this number might have increased as of late. For table game players, New Zealanders can expect the following games:
• Baccarat
• Blackjack
• Caribbean Stud Poker
• Roulette
Things are kicked up a notch with their Horizon Room, a room designated for VIP gaming and available only through arrangement. This exclusive room offers blackjack, roulette and midi-baccarat along with a grand selection of food and beverage services. The most valued players are privy to the Horizon Room.
What’s really great about this New Zealand casino is that it also welcomes beginners and provides players with ‘Learn to Play’ brochures to help them get started. There are also friendly casino staff who are always willing to assist. The Skycity Wharf Casino also promotes responsible gambling and only players over the age of 20 are allowed to enjoy the games.
The casino itself has only one restaurant and that’s the Wild Thyme Restaurant. They have a great lunch special though and one that goes for NZ$10. You pay ten bucks and in return you get 10 great menu items. All items on the menu range from NZ$10 to NZ$26. We’re not disappointed by the fact the casino comes with just one place to eat because this is the Queenstown wharf after all and there are plenty of other restaurants and attractions to attend to. These places less demand on the casino in terms of providing players with major extras. There’s also live entertainment on a regular basis, and players can enjoy a variety of different shows and musical acts.
For the Skycity Wharf Casino, extras aren’t really to be found inside the casino as they are to be found around its lovely lakeside location. You’ll be able to enjoy bungee jumping, jet boating, river surfing, white water rafting, canyon swinging and even sky diving. Plus, there’s a whole slew of atmospheric restaurants, cafés and bars to peruse. This combination of outside activities makes the overall experience of the Skycity Wharf Casino quite an exceptional one.
