Crown or SkyCity - Do Aussies or Kiwis have better casinos?

The rivalry between Aussies and Kiwis isn’t confined to just sports or cultural achievements. The same competitive spirit is also evident when it comes to comparing their luxurious casinos, notably the Crown in Australia and SkyCity in New Zealand. Both have positioned themselves as premier entertainment destinations in the Southern Hemisphere, but which one has the edge in the battle for the best casino experience? Let’s dive in.

Historical Background

Crown Casinos: Australia's Crown Jewel
Crown Resorts Limited is the largest gambling and entertainment group in the country of Australia. The Crown Casinos, with locations predominantly in Melbourne and Perth, have long been Australia's top entertainment hubs. Established in Melbourne in 1994, Crown has grown from a local casino to a multi-faceted resort, boasting not just world-class gaming facilities but also top-tier accommodation, dining, and other forms of entertainment.

SkyCity Casinos: New Zealand's Gaming Pride
SkyCity, with its main location in Auckland and smaller branches in Hamilton and Queenstown, is a staple in New Zealand's entertainment landscape. The Auckland location, opened in 1996, is NZ's largest casino, and over the years, SkyCity has expanded its offerings to be more than just a gaming destination.

Gaming Offerings

Australia's Crown: A Diverse Gaming Experience
The Crown Casinos offer an expansive gaming experience with over 2,500 poker machines and a variety of table games, including Blackjack, Roulette, and Baccarat. High-rollers also have exclusive access to private gaming rooms that offer a more intimate and luxurious gaming experience. However, the property does not offer anything for sports punters. However, many sites in Australia offer live betting so fans can bet on football, rugby, horse racing and more online.

SkyCity’s Gaming Palette
While smaller in scale compared to Crown, SkyCity casinos are no slouches. Auckland's SkyCity, for instance, boasts over 1,600 gaming machines and over 100 table games, ensuring that gamblers have ample choices. Like Crown, SkyCity also caters to the high-end market with dedicated rooms and suites for a more private gaming experience.

Accommodation and Amenities

The Luxurious Stays at Crown
The Crown brand doesn't just stand out for its gaming. Their resorts, especially in Melbourne, are home to three world-class hotels: Crown Towers, Crown Metropol, and Crown Promenade. It's fair to say they are among the popular Australian tourist destinations. Each offers a distinct luxury experience ranging from the opulent suites of the Towers to the modern, chic designs of the Metropol.

SkyCity’s Elegant Resorts
SkyCity Auckland houses two prestigious hotels: The SkyCity Grand Hotel and SkyCity Hotel. Both establishments offer top-of-the-line accommodation options with a mix of elegance and modern design. Views from the rooms, given the iconic Sky Tower’s presence, are a unique selling point for the Auckland location. Living up to the name "Sky City" are not only the stunning views but also the sky-high standard for quality of service.

Dining and Entertainment

Gourmet Journeys at Crown
Crown establishments in Australia boast a plethora of dining options. From fine dining establishments led by celebrity chefs like Neil Perry to more casual but equally delightful eateries, the choices are vast. In terms of entertainment, Crown also offers theatres, live music venues, and even nightclubs.

SkyCity’s Culinary and Entertainment Feasts
SkyCity isn't far behind. Auckland’s main complex alone houses over 20 restaurants, cafes, and bars, offering a diverse range of cuisines from around the world. For entertainment, the iconic Sky Tower offers breathtaking views, while the theatre hosts a variety of shows and events throughout the year.

Betting and Online Gaming

While both Crown and SkyCity have positioned themselves as comprehensive entertainment destinations, neither houses dedicated betting shops. However, patrons are not entirely bereft of betting opportunities. On the contrary - betting falls into the category of adventures and recreational activities in Australia. Both casino chains have embraced the digital age, allowing users to bet online on live events. This modern approach ensures that even if patrons are not physically present at the casino, they can still engage in the thrill of betting.

You Don't Have to Choose One or the Other

Choosing between Crown and SkyCity is a tough call, as both offer exceptional experiences in terms of gaming, accommodation, dining, and entertainment. While Crown may have a slight edge in terms of scale and diversity, SkyCity offers unique experiences, especially with the iconic Sky Tower in Auckland. Ultimately, whether you're an Aussie or a Kiwi, what matters most is the quality of the experience – and both these casino giants deliver in spades.