Online Slots With The Highest Payouts
Finding pokies that actually pay well starts with knowing their RTP – Return to Player. Our review team explains how to identify high-RTP games using verified data from licensed providers. You’ll learn how RTP works and how to choose the most rewarding pokies available to New Zealand players.
Understanding RTP and Its Role in Online Pokies
RTP, or Return to Player, shows how much of the total money wagered on a pokie is paid back to players over time. It’s shown as a percentage, for example, a slot with 97% RTP theoretically returns $97 for every $100 wagered. The number is calculated across millions of spins, so it doesn’t predict short-term outcomes. RTP matters because it helps players understand the game’s payout potential. Higher RTP usually means better long-term value, even though every spin is random.
How to Find RTP Information in Pokies
Every licensed pokie must display its RTP (Return to Player) percentage somewhere in the game. The easiest way to check it is by opening the game menu and clicking on the help or information icon — usually marked with a “?” or an “i.” Inside, you’ll find game rules, paytable details, and the RTP rate. If you can’t see it there, try typing the game’s name followed by “RTP” into a search engine, for example, “Starburst RTP.” Reliable gaming sites and official developers publish this data openly. Always make sure the information comes from a verified source, as transparency is required for all licensed online pokies available in New Zealand.
Why High RTP Pokies Are So Popular
Players in New Zealand often choose slots with a higher RTP because they combine better long-term returns with reliability and easy access. Here’s why these games are so widely trusted and enjoyed:
- Possibility of larger payouts: Higher RTP percentages mean better long-term return potential.
- Verified machines: Each game is tested and certified by recognised auditors for fairness.
- Checked by other players: Popular high RTP titles are reviewed and discussed widely, building extra confidence.
- Mobile compatibility: Most of these games work perfectly on phones and tablets.
- Demo versions available: Players can test how the slot behaves before spending real money.
Together, these factors make high RTP pokies a sensible and transparent choice for regular play.
Types of Online Slots
Online pokies come in many forms, each offering a different style of play. Understanding these types helps players choose games that match their preferences and budget. Below are the most common categories and what makes each one stand out:
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Video slots |
Modern pokies with advanced graphics, animations, and bonus features. |
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Progressive jackpot slots |
A small part of every bet goes into a shared prize pool that keeps growing until one player wins it. |
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3- or 5-reel slots |
Simple setups with classic three-reel layouts or more complex five-reel versions offering extra paylines and features. |
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Interactive slots |
Games that include bonus rounds or mini-games where choices can affect results. |
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Hot spot slots |
Feature marked symbols that can trigger bonus rounds or multiplier wins. |
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One-armed bandit slots |
Traditional-style pokies inspired by old mechanical machines, focused on simple gameplay. |
Most Common Slot Themes
Themes play a big part in how players connect with pokies. The setting, symbols, and sound design all shape the overall atmosphere, creating a sense of familiarity or curiosity that keeps players interested. Below are the themes you’ll find most often in New Zealand’s online pokie selection.
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Fruit slots |
The classic category featuring cherries, lemons, and lucky sevens. These are easy to play, focus on quick rounds, and often include bonus multipliers. |
Examples of pokies: Sizzling Hot, Fruit Shop, Ultra Hot Deluxe |
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Adventure slots |
Packed with storylines and cinematic elements, they take players through quests and treasure hunts. |
Examples of pokies: Gonzo’s Quest, Rich Wilde and the Book of Dead, Tomb Raider |
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Vampires and horror |
Dark graphics, eerie music, and special effects create a spooky tone. Bonus features often appear during nighttime or supernatural scenes. |
Examples of pokies: Blood Suckers, Immortal Romance, Wild Blood 2 |
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Ancient Egypt |
One of the most popular genres, using pharaohs, pyramids, and scarabs. Many of these titles include expanding symbols and free spins. |
Examples of pokies: Book of Ra, Legacy of Egypt, Cleopatra. |
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Vikings |
These games combine Norse legends with strong visuals and dramatic soundtracks. |
Examples of pokies: Vikings Go Berzerk, Thunderstruck II, Hall of Gods |
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Olympian gods |
Based on Greek mythology, these slots feature Zeus, Athena, and Poseidon as main symbols. |
Examples of pokies: Age of the Gods, Rise of Olympus, Gates of Olympus |
Bonus Features in High RTP Games
High RTP pokies often include bonus features that add variety and extra chances to win. These special mechanics are designed to extend playtime, increase engagement, and make every spin less predictable. While RTP reflects long-term returns, bonuses help boost potential payouts and make each game round more interesting.
- Free spins: Reward players with extra rounds that don’t require additional bets, often triggered by scatter symbols.
- Wild symbols: Replace other symbols to complete winning combinations and can sometimes multiply wins.
- Respins: Allow one or more reels to spin again after a near miss, improving the odds of landing a win.
- Bonus Game: A separate feature round, often interactive, offering prizes such as multipliers or instant cash rewards.
- Scatter symbols: Trigger bonus rounds or free spins when they appear anywhere on the reels, regardless of paylines.
These elements work together to make high RTP pokies more dynamic and rewarding over time.
Top High RTP Slots List
Below is a list of well-known online slot sites with high RTP (Return to Player) percentages. Each title comes from a trusted provider and has been independently tested to confirm fairness and payout accuracy.
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Slot Name |
Provider |
RTP |
Max. Win |
Slot Type |
|
Ugga Bugga |
Playtech |
99.07% |
x10,000 |
Classic 3-reel slot |
|
Book of 99 |
Relax Gaming |
99.00% |
x12,000 |
Video slot |
|
Mega Joker |
NetEnt |
99.00% |
x2,000 |
Progressive classic slot |
|
Jackpot 6000 |
NetEnt |
98.80% |
x3,000 |
Fruit-style slot |
|
1429 Uncharted Seas |
Thunderkick |
98.60% |
x670 |
Adventure slot |
|
Blood Suckers |
NetEnt |
98.00% |
x1,000 |
Horror slot |
|
Money Cart 2 |
Relax Gaming |
98.00% |
x10,000 |
Bonus-focused slot |
|
Kings of Chicago |
NetEnt |
97.80% |
x5,000 |
Card-themed slot |
|
White Rabbit Megaways |
Big Time Gaming |
97.77% |
x17,420 |
Megaways slot |
|
Twin Spin Deluxe |
NetEnt |
96.61% |
x1,000 |
Video slot |
5 Best Slot Machines with High Payouts
High RTP pokies attract players who prefer consistent, transparent returns over flashy bonuses. The following titles are among the most trusted in New Zealand, offering tested payout rates and well-balanced gameplay. Each slot stands out for its mechanics, volatility, and bonus design.
Mega Joker (NetEnt – 99% RTP)
A true classic from NetEnt, Mega Joker runs on a 3-reel layout with a progressive jackpot feature. It has high volatility, meaning payouts can be rare but significant. The Supermeter mode adds a strategic layer where winnings can be reinvested for bigger prizes. Bets range from NZD $0.10 to $2.00.
Jackpot 6000 (NetEnt – 98.8% RTP)
Another retro favourite, Jackpot 6000 offers simple rules with a 3x3 reel setup and a Supermeter bonus similar to Mega Joker. Its minimal design hides strong winning potential for patient players. RTP varies slightly based on bet size, but averages close to 98.8%.
Blood Suckers (NetEnt – 98% RTP)
This vampire-themed slot combines high RTP with frequent bonus triggers. It features free spins, multipliers, and a pick-and-click bonus game. Low volatility makes it ideal for steady returns. Bets start from NZD $0.25 per spin.
Devil’s Delight (NetEnt – 97.6% RTP)
Set in a cartoonish version of hell, Devil’s Delight includes a Soul Reaper bonus and expanding wilds. Medium volatility ensures a balance between smaller and larger wins. Bets range from NZD $0.20 to $50.
Ugga Bugga (Playtech – 99.07% RTP)
Ugga Bugga offers one of the highest RTP rates online. It’s a unique 3-reel slot where players can hold symbols between spins for tactical play. Bets start at NZD $0.10, making it appealing to budget-conscious players.
Leading Slot Providers
Behind every high RTP pokie stands a reputable software provider. These companies are responsible for creating fair, transparent, and visually distinctive games that meet strict regulatory standards. The developers listed below are recognised globally and have earned strong reputations among New Zealand players for reliability and innovation.
- NetEnt has built its name on quality and consistency. Known for sharp graphics and clear payout structures, the studio offers some of the highest RTP rates available online. Popular slots include Starburst, Blood Suckers, Jackpot 6000, Gonzo’s Quest, and Twin Spin Deluxe.
- Microgaming (Apricot) as one of the industry’s pioneers, Microgaming has released hundreds of titles since the mid-1990s. The company’s RNG-based pokies are regularly tested by eCOGRA for fairness. Top games include Mega Moolah, Thunderstruck II, Immortal Romance, Jurassic Park, and Break da Bank Again.
- NoLimit City, this Swedish studio is known for bold, unconventional slot mechanics and high RTP options. Its titles often include extreme volatility and feature-rich designs. Well-known games include San Quentin xWays, Fire in the Hole xBomb, Tombstone RIP, Deadwood, and Mental.
- Pragmatic Play focuses on accessibility and balanced gameplay. Many of its slots perform well on mobile, with medium-to-high volatility and engaging bonus rounds. Favourites include Sweet Bonanza, The Dog House Megaways, Gates of Olympus, Sugar Rush, and Big Bass Bonanza.
- IGT is a veteran in gaming software, IGT produces classic-style pokies with simple interfaces and long-standing appeal. The company’s titles combine traditional designs with reliable payout models. Key releases include Cleopatra, Da Vinci Diamonds, Siberian Storm, Golden Goddess, and Wolf Run.
- Big Time Gaming (BTG) introduced the Megaways system, transforming how reels and paylines work. Their slots are known for innovation and high potential wins. Highlights include White Rabbit Megaways, Bonanza, Extra Chilli, Danger High Voltage, and Lil’ Devil.
- Play’n GO delivers a broad portfolio with strong visual identity and creative bonus features. Each title is optimised for mobile play and verified for fairness. Popular examples include Book of Dead, Reactoonz, Legacy of Dead, Fire Joker, and Rise of Olympus.
Fairness and Game Certification
Fairness in online pokies is ensured through strict technical and regulatory standards. Each licensed game uses a Random Number Generator (RNG) — software that produces unpredictable outcomes for every spin. This means results can’t be influenced by players, operators, or developers.
Independent auditors such as eCOGRA, iTech Labs, and Technical Systems Testing (TST) regularly check these systems to verify that they operate correctly and that payout percentages match the stated RTP. Certified titles receive official seals confirming compliance with fairness and transparency standards.
In New Zealand, only licensed gaming sites can legally host these certified slots. For players, this means that every spin on a verified game has the same fair chance of winning or losing, no matter when or how it’s played.
Tips for New Slot Players
Starting with pokies doesn’t require experience — just a few good habits and some awareness of how games work. These tips help new players build confidence and stay in control while enjoying high RTP titles.
- Start playing for free: Most games offer demo versions. Use them to learn the rules and see how the features work before betting real money.
- Take advantage of bonuses: Promotions like free spins or deposit matches can extend your playtime without extra cost. Always check the wagering requirements first.
- Focus on high RTP: Choosing pokies with a higher RTP percentage gives better long-term return potential.
- Set a budget: Decide on a spending limit and stick to it, regardless of results.
- Don’t chase losses: Accept losing streaks as part of the game; increasing bets to recover losses rarely works.
- Play without stimulants: Stay focused and make clear decisions while playing.
- Choose only licensed sites: Licensed platforms follow New Zealand regulations, ensuring fair games and safe transactions.
Conclusion
High RTP pokies remain the smartest pick for players who value transparency and steady returns. Before spinning, check the RTP, volatility, and bonus options to find what suits your style. Reliable, certified titles offer fair play and a better sense of control over long-term results.
FAQ
Which online slot machines offer the highest payouts?
Games such as Ugga Bugga, Book of 99, and Mega Joker feature some of the highest RTP rates available, reaching up to 99%.
Do slots with the highest RTP pay out more often than other slot machines?
Not necessarily. High RTP means better long-term returns, but payout frequency depends on volatility.
Can you win more on online slot machines by playing at night?
No. All licensed pokies use random number generators, so time of play doesn’t affect results.
How do I know if a slot machine offers high winnings?
Check the official RTP percentage in the game’s info menu or on the provider’s website.
Can you win more money on high-payout slots?
High RTP games offer better odds over time, but each spin remains completely random.
Are there any winning strategies for slots with high RTP?
There’s no guaranteed method, but choosing games with higher RTP and setting limits helps manage risk.
Can I trust the declared RTP rates?
Yes, if the game is licensed and certified by independent auditors like eCOGRA or TST.

