How We Review Keno Casinos
At onlinekeno.co.nz, we don’t just list every casino that offers a Keno grid. In 2026, the New Zealand gambling landscape has changed, and our review process has evolved to match. Every platform we recommend undergoes a rigorous 7-point audit to ensure it meets the highest standards of safety, fairness, and Kiwi-focused service. If you’re new to the game itself, you can also explore our complete Keno guide before comparing casinos.
Our mission is simple: to ensure that when you pick your spots, you’re doing so on a platform that respects your time and your wallet.
Our 7-Point Audit Process
1. 2026 License Verification
Under the Online Casino Gambling Bill, New Zealand now only permits 15 licensed operators to serve the market legally.
- The Test: We manually verify each site’s license against the official DIA registry. If they aren’t on the list of 15, they don’t make it onto our site. A full list of safe operators can be found in our best Keno casinos section.
2. Keno Game Variety & RNG Fairness
A great Keno site needs more than just one classic game.
- The Test: We look for variants like Speed Keno, Power Keno, and Live Dealer Keno. We also verify that all draws use a certified RNG. If you want to understand the math behind the draw, our probability guide breaks down the odds.
3. NZD Banking & Payout Speed
Kiwis shouldn’t have to deal with currency conversion fees or slow withdrawal times.
- The Test: We deposit and withdraw using popular NZ methods such as POLi, Debit MasterCard, and Apple/Google Pay. Sites offering instant withdrawals for wins under $1,000 score highest.
4. Transparency of Odds & RTP
We believe you should know your chances before you bet.
- The Test: We check if the casino clearly displays RTP percentages and full paytables. Any platform with an RTP below 94% drops in our ranking. You can compare expected returns using our Keno odds calculator.
5. Mobile Experience
In 2026, over 85% of NZ Keno players use their phones.
- The Test: We test the Keno grid on iPhone, Android, and tablets. If the buttons are too small or the draw animation lags, the score suffers. For device-specific options, explore our mobile Keno guide.
6. Harm Minimization Tools
Responsible play is the backbone of the 2026 NZ market.
- The Test: We ensure every site provides easy access to deposit limits, session timers, and reality checks. For more guidance, our responsible gambling page outlines all available tools.
7. Local Support Quality
If you have a question at 8 PM on a Tuesday, you shouldn’t be waiting for overseas support to wake up.
- The Test: We contact live chat with Keno-specific questions and reward sites that provide 24/7 NZ-aware support.
Our “Blacklist” Criteria
A casino is immediately disqualified or blacklisted if we find:
- Unverifiable licensing claims.
- Predatory or hidden wagering rules on Keno bonuses.
- Delayed or intentionally stalled payouts during ID checks.
Independence Disclosure
We may receive a commission if you join a casino through our links, but this never affects our scoring system. Our reviews are data-driven and built around fairness, transparency, and player experience. You can learn more on our affiliate disclosure page.