Roulette Rules: How the Game Works for New Zealand Players

Roulette is one of the most iconic and accessible casino games ever created. Its blend of simplicity, excitement, and strategic betting options makes it a favourite among New Zealand players. Whether you’re brand new to the game or looking to refresh your knowledge, this guide breaks down exactly how roulette works, the rules you need to know, and the bet types you can use to increase your chances of winning.

Understanding the Roulette Wheel and Table

Roulette is played using a spinning wheel divided into numbered pockets and a betting table where players place their wagers. The wheel features numbers 1 to 36 split evenly between red and black, along with one or two green pockets depending on the version of the game.

European vs American Wheels

• European Roulette: Contains 37 pockets (1–36 plus a single zero). Lower house edge, preferred by NZ players.
• American Roulette: Contains 38 pockets (1–36 plus zero and double zero). Higher house edge.

The table layout mirrors the wheel numbers and includes additional betting areas for outside bets, making it easy to place wagers depending on your strategy.

How a Round of Roulette Works

Each game round follows a simple, predictable structure:

Step 1: Place Your Bets

Players place chips on the table to choose numbers, number groups, colours, odd/even outcomes, or other combinations. You can place multiple bets each round.

Step 2: The Wheel Spins

The dealer (or the automated system in RNG roulette) spins the wheel and launches a small ball along the outer track.

Step 3: Ball Lands in a Pocket

Once the wheel slows down, the ball settles in a numbered pocket. This number determines the winning bets.

Step 4: Winning Bets Are Paid Out

The dealer clears losing chips and pays out the winners based on the bet type and payout odds.

The Two Main Types of Roulette Bets

Roulette bets fall into two categories, each offering different levels of risk and reward.

Inside Bets

These bets are placed on specific numbers or small groups of numbers. They offer higher payouts but lower chances of winning.

Common inside bets include:

• Straight Up: Single number
• Split: Two adjacent numbers
• Street: A row of three numbers
• Corner: Four connected numbers
• Line Bet: Six numbers across two rows

Outside Bets

These bets cover larger number groups, giving players better odds but smaller payouts.

Popular outside bets include:

• Red or Black
• Odd or Even
• High or Low (1–18 / 19–36)
• Dozens: 1–12, 13–24, 25–36
• Columns: One of three long vertical sections

Special Roulette Rules That Benefit Players

Some roulette variations include additional rules that reduce the house edge and improve long-term returns.

La Partage

Used in many European roulette games. If zero lands, half of your even-money bet is returned.

En Prison

Your even-money bet stays on the table for the next spin if zero lands. If it wins on the next spin, your stake is returned.

These rules make European and French roulette particularly advantageous for New Zealand players.

How Online Roulette Works

Modern online casinos offer two primary versions of roulette:

RNG Roulette

Games powered by a Random Number Generator. Every spin is independent, fast, and fair. Ideal for quick gameplay and betting practice.

Live Dealer Roulette

Streams a real dealer spinning a physical wheel. Offers an authentic, immersive live dealer experience right from your device.

Both options allow NZ players to enjoy roulette anytime, with flexible bet sizes and multiple game variants.

Basic Strategy Tips for NZ Roulette Players

While roulette is a game of chance, smart betting can enhance your experience:

• Start with outside bets for consistent wins.
• Choose European or French roulette for lower house edge.
• Avoid the American wheel when possible.
• Set a limit for each session and stick to it.
• Combine small outside bets with occasional inside bets for balance.

Start Playing Roulette with Confidence

Once you understand how the wheel works, how bets are placed, and what rules apply, roulette becomes one of the easiest and most enjoyable casino games to play. With its simple mechanics and flexible betting options, it’s a perfect choice for both beginners and experienced NZ players looking for excitement and potential big wins.

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