Progressive Jackpots Guide NZ

What is a Progressive Jackpot?

A progressive jackpot is a prize pool that grows as players place bets on a slot machine. The jackpot increases until a lucky player wins it, at which point it resets to a predetermined seed amount. These jackpots can be found in both online and land-based casinos, such as Dunedin Casino and SkyCity Casino venues. Games like Powerball, Bullseye, and the National Keno also feature progressive jackpots that build over time.

For online pokies with built-in progressive jackpots, the prize pool grows faster as more players participate. A small portion of each wager contributes to the jackpot, making it increase more quickly when more players are active. However, the jackpot never decreases unless it is won, ensuring its appeal to players.

Additionally, a portion of each bet goes into a "Shadow Jackpot," a reserve fund used to reseed the main jackpot immediately after a win. This ensures that the progressive jackpot remains enticing to players.

Local and Network Jackpot Slots

Progressive jackpots come in two main types: local and networked. A local jackpot is tied to a single slot machine or casino, typically resulting in smaller prize pools. Networked jackpots, on the other hand, link multiple machines across various casinos, allowing the prize pool to grow significantly larger. These can be won on different slot machines and across multiple casinos in the same network.

When a network progressive jackpot is won, all linked machines reset to the starting seed amount. The largest jackpots in online casinos are usually networked progressives, with payouts reaching into the millions.

Highest Progressive Jackpot Slot Win

The highest progressive jackpot slot win to date is over €19,430,723.60 (approximately 33 million NZD), achieved on the popular Mega Moolah slot from Microgaming. In New Zealand, the record stands at NZ$10,144,395.82, won by Rawiri Pou on Mega Moolah at 32Red Casino.

Online Casinos with the most Jackpot Slots

What Types of Progressive Jackpots are There?

Here are some popular types of progressive jackpots available at New Zealand online casinos. Each offers unique features, mechanics, and rewards.

Mega Moolah

Mega Moolah is a famous jackpot slot known for its massive payouts. Developed by Microgaming, it features multiple jackpot levels: Mini, Minor, Major, and Mega. The Mega jackpot often reaches millions.

WoWpot

Also from Microgaming, WoWpot is similar to Mega Moolah but with updated mechanics and jackpots worth millions. It’s available on several themed slots.

Dream Drop

Relax Gaming's Dream Drop offers five jackpot levels (Rapid, Midi, Maxi, Major, and Mega). The Mega Jackpot starts at one million NZD, making it a player favorite.

Mega Fortune

Mega Fortune is another high-paying slot, themed around luxury items like yachts and diamonds. Its jackpots have reached over 30 million NZD in the past.

Spin to Win

Spin to Win by Stakelogic involves a live dealer spinning a jackpot wheel, adding an interactive element to traditional progressive slots.

Strategies and Tips

To maximize your chances of winning a progressive jackpot, consider these strategies:

Minimum Bet

Some progressive slots allow players to win the jackpot even with minimum bets. Look for games where betting small still gives you a shot at the big prize.

Loss Limit

Set a loss limit to avoid overspending. Progressive slots often have lower RTPs and higher variance, so managing your bankroll is crucial.

Jackpot Prize Amount

Target slots with jackpots significantly higher than their seed amounts. This increases your chances of winning a substantial prize.

Progressive Slot RTP

Opt for slots with higher RTPs and moderate variance for better overall returns, even if the jackpots are smaller.

Frequently Asked Questions about Progressive Jackpots