New Zealand casinos made over NZD 700 million in one year. This shows that real casinos in NZ are still important. They attract both locals and tourists.
I’ve visited casinos all over New Zealand, from Auckland to Christchurch. I talked to managers, players, and regulators. I want to show you the best casinos. And tell you why they are worth your time.
This guide will tell you about the rules from the Department of Internal Affairs. I’ll talk about the best places to go, how to choose a good casino, what games they have, and compare real casinos to online ones.
I will use reports and stats to prove my points. You’ll see graphs on how much money casinos make, where visitors come from, and which games are most popular. I’ll also talk about important online terms like best online casinos in NZ.
This is meant to be easy and fun to read. It’s a mix of what I’ve seen and expert details. I made it easy to skim through so you can learn quick and find out more on things that interest you.
Key Takeaways
- Land-based casino NZ venues remain a significant part of New Zealand casinos’ revenue and tourism appeal.
- I’ll compare top destinations, regulatory basics, and how to evaluate a venue’s safety and quality.
- Expect clear evidence from the Department of Internal Affairs and operator reports, plus suggested charts for revenue and game trends.
- The guide contrasts the atmosphere and comps of land-based play with the convenience of top-rated online casino nz options.
- You’ll get practical visitor tips, licensing checks, and resources to research trusted options in both physical and online spaces.
Overview of New Zealand’s Casino Landscape and Regulations
I’ve looked into the Casino Control Act and seen how casinos keep up with laws. It’s clear who can run a casino, how they get a license, and the proof needed to be considered suitable. This is important for choosing the best land based casino nz, or checking a casino’s reports.
The Casino Control Act requires casinos to pass integrity checks, keep good financial records, and work under set roles. Getting a venue license or operator approval involves checking the background of key staff and having good internal controls. The best summaries are in the yearly reports and on the licensing web pages.
The Department of Internal Affairs NZ looks after the licensing and checks for rule-following. They fight money-laundering and watch how casinos report their activities. Regular visits help identify reliable online casino nz options, especially when casinos expand online or offer more services.
Rules to ensure gambling is responsible are key for casinos. This includes training for staff, ways to opt-out, signs, and helpline info like Gambling Helpline NZ. Casinos must avoid ads that might harm vulnerable people and make support easy to find.
After the pandemic, how people play changed fast. In-person visits decreased while online play increased. Casinos focused on experiences, like better service, events, and dining to attract visitors again. For detailed stats, refer to the annual reports by the Department of Internal Affairs NZ and market studies.
Below is a brief comparison of key rules and protections for both land-based and online casinos.
Area | Land-Based Casinos | Online Operators |
---|---|---|
Licensing body | Local venue licence under Casino Control Act | Often regulated by DIA rules when operating in NZ market |
Probity and checks | Rigorous vetting of operators and staff | Operator licencing and software audits required |
Responsible gambling | In-person staff intervention, self-exclusion at venue | Online tools, deposit limits, and helpline links |
AML controls | Cash handling procedures and reporting | Transaction monitoring and identity verification |
Player trust signals | Visible licences, hospitality standards | Clear licensing statements help identify a licensed online casino nz or trusted online casino nz |
Always look at the casino’s privacy and cookie policies and the DIA licensing pages before joining. This helps pick the best land based casino nz with assurance.
Top Land-Based Casino Destinations in New Zealand
I often travel around New Zealand, examining how casinos impact nightlife and tourism. These places draw tourists, business people, and locals alike. Their influence is evident in annual reports and venue lists from the Department of Internal Affairs.
In Auckland, you find a diverse crowd. Business folks and tourists come for short visits, while locals may come weekly. The area around the Viaduct and downtown hotels is bustling. There, hotels, eateries, and clubs offer a mix of dining, shows, and gambling. Good transport makes these spots easy to get to. For more details, look at casino reports and Auckland Tourism information.
Wellington has its own vibe. Casinos are near theaters and fine dining, attracting theatergoers, conference attendees, and tourists. The city’s design connects venues with the arts. This connection creates special package deals that include dinner and shows. Local news and tourism groups often talk about these offers.
Christchurch and locations on the South Island cater to visitors coming for outdoor sports or the scenery. After the 2011 earthquakes, many updated their facilities. Now, modern casinos offer deals with hotels and tours. The number of visitors changes with the seasons, peaking during ski and summer vacations.
Smaller places have their charm, focusing on community, lower bets, and friendly staff. They’re popular among locals for social, low-risk gaming. The warm, family-run atmosphere and special local deals keep regulars coming back.
Visitors and locals alike are drawn to online games as a warm-up to in-person gambling. Live games at casinos offer a different experience from online versions. Yet, both enrich the gambling scene.
When planning your visit, look at annual reports from operators, advice from tourism boards, and lists from the DIA. Local news often shares updates on events and special offerings not found in official guides.
best land based casino nz
I’ll guide you on selecting the perfect casino. Begin by verifying the licence through the Department of Internal Affairs. A visible licence and a current DIA entry are crucial. Before deciding, I also look into the operator’s reputation by reading fresh reviews and checking the news.
How to evaluate a casino: licensing, reputation, location, and amenities
Start with checking the licence. The DIA registry will tell you if a casino has a valid licence. Also, check for policies on responsible gambling and staff training in their materials.
Next, review their reputation. Scan through guest reviews, trade articles, and independent guides. Focus on comments about payout speeds, service quality, and game fairness.
Consider the location and available amenities. It’s great if the casino is connected to hotels, dining, parking, and public transport. Easy access for late arrivals is a plus for me.
Look into the variety of games and betting limits. Ensure there’s a good mix of tables and slots. A well-rounded selection appeals to everyone.
Examine their rewards and loyalty schemes. Some offer great perks like free stays, dining credits, and tickets. I balance these benefits with my usual gaming habits.
Visitor safety and secure payments at land-based venues
Security is key in modern casinos. I check for CCTV, well-trained security teams, and cash handling rules during my visits. This shows how they prioritize the safety of guests.
The way payments are handled is also vital. Look for venues using secure card machines and vetted payment methods. Inquiring about cashless payments adds to your convenience.
It helps to compare with online standards. A good licensed online casino nz uses secure connections and transparent payment processes. This comparison sets my expectations for physical casino payments.
Resident and tourist considerations for choosing the best casinos
Local gamers often value loyalty programs and low betting limits. They prefer locations that are easy to reach and have consistent operating hours.
Tourists might want a place that offers more than just gambling. For instance, I picked a casino once for its convenient shuttle service after a flight delay. Such extras can sway your choice.
Before deciding, ask about any cancellation policies and what’s included. It’s also wise to check on transport options, booking conditions, and if they respect loyalty rewards during brief stays.
Evaluation Point | What to Check | Why It Matters |
---|---|---|
Licence | Verify on DIA registry; check expiry and conditions | Legal compliance, player protection |
Reputation | Guest reviews, press, industry awards | Service consistency and trust |
Location & Transport | Hotel links, shuttle, parking, public transit | Convenience for tourists and late arrivals |
Amenities | Restaurants, shows, parking, accessibility | Value beyond gambling |
Game Mix & Limits | Slot variety, table games, minimum/maximum bets | Fit for casual players and high rollers |
Payment Security | EMV/EFTPOS, cashless options, receipts | Safe transactions and fraud protection |
Loyalty Programs | Rewards structure, eligibility, redemption | Long-term value for residents |
Safety & Procedures | CCTV, trained staff, incident policies | Guest protection and incident response |
Online Parallels | SSL/TLS, verified processors, privacy notices | Compare to licensed online casino nz and secure online casino nz standards |
Trust Signals | Transparent terms, visible complaints handling | Indicates a trusted online casino nz or trusted land-based operator |
Games and Table Limits: What to Expect on the Casino Floor
I roam the casino, hearing chips clink and watching games unfold around me. In New Zealand, casinos blend traditional tables, slots, and exclusive rooms seamlessly. People often inquire about betting limits, chance of winning, and if they can get the same thrill online.
Blackjack, roulette, baccarat
In New Zealand, blackjack games mainly use a six-deck shoe. Dealers stand on soft 17. The usual edge for the house ranges from 0.5% to 1.5% if you play smart. Blackjack tables’ stakes can start at $5 during slow times. They might jump to over $100 when it’s busy.
Roulette is often played on a European wheel, giving better odds than the American version. Baccarat usually asks for higher bets and offers fewer seats. It draws a crowd after dark, especially the big spenders. Table games like these are busiest from 8pm to midnight on weekends.
Slots and pokies: land machines vs online titles
On the floor, pokies range from penny slots to exclusive machines for VIPs. You might find jackpots that are linked across several places. The buttons are easy to use, perfect for a laid-back game. Online, sites like top online pokies nz let you pick games based on return to player (RTP), how often they pay out, and special features. This means online players get a lot of variety. Yet, playing in person has its perks, like feeling the game and getting winnings in hand right away.
Live dealer experiences compared to streamed tables
Online live dealer games bring the table to you with real dealers and camera work. The best live dealer games nz offer multiple views, extra bets, and some digital extras. But playing in person has its charm with chatting dealers and immediate chip trades. Online might keep the game moving without stops, while in-person play has breaks for placing bets and small talk. When you win big, face-to-face cash outs and ID checks are quicker inside casinos.
High-roller rooms and private areas
High-roller spaces are for big bets, starting from $500 to $5,000. You’ll need to book these private spots ahead and show ID. They offer special perks like free hotel stays, dining, and your own concierge. Security is tight, including cameras and pre-checked funds. It’s important to dress right, tip the dealers when you win, and listen to the host about where to sit and bet limits.
Here’s a simple comparison to help you understand what to expect, whether you’re playing on-site or online.
Aspect | Land-Based Casinos | Online Options |
---|---|---|
Game Variety | Classic tables, physical pokies, limited machines | Thousands of titles including top online pokies nz and live streams |
RTP / Payout Info | Fixed by machine or table rules; progressive jackpots on some pokies | RTP filters available; volatility and RTP often displayed |
Social Interaction | High: face-to-face dealers and players | Moderate: chat functions in the best live dealer games nz |
Limits | Wide range: $1 pokies to $5,000+ high-roller tables | Flexible stakes from micro-bets to VIP tables |
Cashouts & ID | Immediate payouts, ID verification for large wins | Withdraw processing times and KYC checks |
My takeaway: popular online casino games nz offer lots of choices and clear info on games. But the best land-based casino in NZ has an unbeatable atmosphere and quick service. It depends on what you like: the company of other players or a wide range of games online.
Comparing Land-Based Casinos to the Best Online Casino NZ Options
I play both on the floor and online. Each has its own perks, depending on what you’re looking for. Here’s a guide to help you decide whether a night out or an online adventure suits your plans better.
Land-based casinos offer a unique vibe that apps can’t replicate. The bustling atmosphere, live dealers, and onsite perks make it special. You’ll get treats like free meals and room upgrades. Plus, these places are great for enjoying live shows and meeting new people.
Learning a game is often easier in person. The interaction with dealers and observing table manners add to the experience. If I’m after the full experience, I’ll visit a top land-based casino in Auckland or Queenstown.
Online gaming stands out for its convenience and variety. You’ll find thousands of games and many variations at top sites. You can try new games on your phone too. The loyalty rewards and promotions online are hard to beat.
Before I play a game in person, I like to practice online. It’s easier to find games with good return-to-player rates. This makes learning new games online straightforward and efficient.
Both online and in-person places focus on keeping you safe. Physical casinos have strict rules, surveillance, and staff to monitor activities. They check IDs and look out for any suspicious behavior on the spot.
Online sites use strong encryption and are regularly checked by third parties. They explain how they use your data and let you control what’s shared. This helps in keeping your online play safe and private.
Here’s a quick comparison of the main differences between visiting a casino and playing online.
Feature | Land-Based Casinos | Online Platforms |
---|---|---|
Atmosphere | Immersive, live dealers, entertainment | Limited to sound and visuals; immersive themes via design |
Game Variety | Table limits and physical machines vary by venue | Thousands of titles, multiple variants, instant updates |
Promotions & Loyalty | Comps, show tickets, hotel packages | Daily bonuses, free spins, tiered loyalty offers |
Security & Regulation | On-site surveillance, DIA oversight, in-person ID checks | Encryption, RNG audits, clear cookie and privacy policies |
Convenience | Requires travel and time; offers social interaction | Play-anytime access; mobile apps and remote deposits |
Testing & Practice | Limited demo options; pay-per-play learning | Demo modes, provable RTPs at many top-rated online casino nz |
Trust Signals | Visible license, face-to-face staff, venue reputation | Third-party seals, audited results, player reviews at trusted online casino nz |
Licensing, Trust, and Security for Players
I checked licences and privacy details for New Zealand’s gaming sites. Gamers want to know they’re using legit sites or venues. I looked at their official documents and how they handle things before joining or sharing my info.
How to verify a casino’s licence and regulatory compliance
First, go to the Department of Internal Affairs license lists. Make sure the operator’s name and licence number match those on the DIA’s list. If it’s not clear in the place, ask a staff member for the licence number.
Then, look at the operator’s annual reports and check for audit dates and how many machines they have. Make sure they have the right number of gaming tables and pokies. I always look for recent inspections and any notes about needing to fix things. This shows if it’s a licensed online casino nz or if a land venue follows the rules.
Signs of a trusted online casino nz and parallels for physical casinos
A reliable online casino nz will show its licence and tests from groups like eCOGRA or iTech Labs. They’ll also be clear about bonus rules. And they’ll offer safe payment methods like Visa, Mastercard, and well-known e-wallets.
In a real place, look for the licence displayed openly, staff trained in responsible gambling, and how they handle complaints. Both online and real-life venues should have tools for gambling safely and ways to get help. These are signs of a secure online casino nz or a trustworthy casino.
Privacy, data handling, and cookie policies at casino websites and venues
Go through the casino’s privacy page to understand how they deal with personal and loyalty program data. They should let you say no to unnecessary cookies.
The type of cookies is important. Necessary ones are for site work and keeping things secure. Functional ones are for social stuff. Analytical ones track how visitors use the site. And advertising ones are for marketing. Sometimes, there are cookies for new tools that aren’t sorted yet.
At physical places, they should also care how they handle your loyalty info. Ask about how they keep your data and if you can remove or move it. I try opting out to see if they really respect my choices.
Comparing my options, the best land based casino nz has clear licenses, good data policies, and well-trained staff. The same goes for selecting a secure licensed online casino nz or a trustworthy site.
Visitor Guide: Tips for First-Time Casino Visitors in New Zealand
Think of your first casino visit as a brief adventure. Planning ahead will make it enjoyable and easy. Remember to bring important items, learn the games’ rules, and use tools the casino offers to guard your funds and time.
What to bring: ID, budgets, and local currency considerations
Always have a government-issued ID for entry and joining player clubs. While traveling, my passport is key, and in New Zealand, I carry my driver’s licence. Although many casinos take cards, it’s smart to carry some New Zealand dollars for tips or small bets.
Set your budget before entering. I either use a cash envelope or get a pre-paid card from the casino. This helps keep track of spending and prevents the urge to bet more if losing.
Opening hours, dress codes, and venue-specific rules
Casinos have different hours, depending on their location and the day. Big casinos in Auckland and Christchurch might open all night. But smaller places might close early. It’s wise to call or check online for hours during events.
The dress code can vary. It might be smart-casual or more formal for special areas. I once had to go back and change into smarter shoes for a special event. When unsure, dressing neatly is always a good idea.
Responsible gambling tools available at venues and helplines
Casinos offer helpful tools like self-exclusion and setting time or money limits on player accounts. Staff are trained to spot and address gambling problems. I like to set a timer and decide on a spending limit to keep my visit social and fun.
If you need more help, the casinos suggest talking to the Gambling Helpline NZ. They also offer local counselling services. This shows how the industry cares more about safe gambling in New Zealand now.
Practical pointers for logistics and transfers
Look into how you’ll get there ahead of time. Lot of casinos have shuttles from the airport. They also have parking, but it can get full on big nights. I find taking a taxi or a rideshare much simpler than worrying about parking.
Item | Why it matters | My tip |
---|---|---|
ID | Required for entry and rewards accounts | Bring passport when travelling, driver’s licence locally |
Budget method | Controls spending and prevents overspending | Use cash envelope or casino pre-paid card |
Opening hours | Varies by venue and events | Call ahead or check the venue site |
Dress code | Can affect entry to VIP or event areas | Choose smart-casual; upgrade for gala nights |
Responsible tools | Self-exclusion, limits, trained staff, helplines | Set timers and loss limits; ask staff about options |
Transport | Shuttles, parking, taxis and rideshares differ by site | Confirm shuttle schedules; prefer drop-off for busy nights |
Online comparison | Check reviews when you research options | Balance atmosphere against safety; compare with trusted online casino nz ratings if you plan mixed play |
I choose casinos based on what I’m in the mood for. Large complexes offer nightlife and shows. For a quiet game of poker, smaller venues are best. It’s all about finding a place that meets your needs and expectations.
Hotels, Dining, and Entertainment Integrated with Casinos
I often travel to Auckland, Wellington, and Queenstown. I notice how casinos shape a night out. A casino resort offers everything: a room, spa, show, and gaming. This is convenient for tourists, offering value with dining credits or free-play deals from top land based casino nz operators.
Top hotel-casino complexes
I seek out places that have conference spaces and event facilities. Sofitel Auckland Viaduct and SkyCity Auckland are great examples. Here, you’ll find rooms, meeting halls, and casinos all in one spot. These spots are perfect for people who want a show and dinner without stressing about transport. Also, getting a package deal often saves more money than booking everything separately.
Dining options inside casino precincts
Casinos have dining from casual to fine-dining. On a slow Tuesday, I reserve a table at a top place. When it’s busy on weekends, booking ahead stops disappointment. Menus change with the seasons. Always check for special menus or chef events.
Shows, events, and nightlife
Casinos host music, comedy, theatre, and more. I check schedules to match events with my trips. They also have nightclubs and bars for fun after the shows. Use promotions to make the most of your budget on weekends.
Practical tips for visitors
Compare hotel deals near casinos. If you’re into online gambling, see if they have a top-rated online casino nz too. For groups, ask about private spaces near the gaming areas.
Checking official listings
I rely on official brochures and listings to plan. This helps keep my trips smooth and free from surprises.
Economic Impact and Statistics of Casinos in New Zealand
I study casino economics like a gardener observes seasons. Numbers show when growth is real. In New Zealand, the money casinos make and visitor numbers show changes in tourism and local spending. It also tells us how people choose between traditional casinos and online games like popular online casino games nz.
Look at the Department of Internal Affairs’ annual reports and what casinos say they earn. Compare this year’s numbers with those from past years to see trends. It’s key to know the average amount each visitor spends. This links the money made to the number of visitors and money from food and drinks.
Revenue metrics to collect
- Yearly casino earnings for the last 5–10 years.
- Count of visitors each month or season to track when more tourists come.
- Average money spent by each visitor, showing both gaming and other purchases.
Employment and tourism effects
Casinos directly employ many in jobs like gaming and security. They also indirectly create jobs in hotels, eateries, and transport services nearby. When measuring jobs, count them as full-time roles and estimate their impact on the local economy.
In cities with casino districts, see how they affect tourism. Check how many people stay overnight, book events, and dine at restaurants. This helps see if a best land based casino nz increases city-wide earnings or mostly attracts local dollars.
Graphic recommendations
- Charts showing yearly casino earnings over 5–10 years, noting any changes due to laws or the pandemic.
- The percentage of visitors from within the country versus from abroad, shown over time.
- Popularity of different games (like slots or table games), showing both in-person and online preferences.
Get this information from reports by the Department of Internal Affairs, casinos like SkyCity and Christchurch Casino, and market studies. Make sure the numbers match verified reports for trustworthiness.
Small prediction model inputs
- How tourism changes season by season.
- How international arrivals are bouncing back after the pandemic.
- How quickly people are moving to digital games, including the interest in popular online casino games nz and using legal online platforms.
Use these details in a simple model to guess the number of visitors and earnings in the next 1–2 years. This will show how important international visitors are and the trend towards using legal online platforms.
Metric | Typical Source | Suggested Display |
---|---|---|
Gross gambling revenue (annual) | Department of Internal Affairs; operator financials | Line chart, 5–10 years with event markers |
Visitor origin split | Operator visitation reports; tourism NZ stats | Stacked bar chart by year and percentage |
Game popularity share | Floor meters; operator game reports; market research | Donut chart with pokies, table games, electronic table games |
Employment impact (FTE) | Operator reports; local council economic studies | Table with direct vs indirect jobs and multiplier |
Average spend per visitor | Operator POS and surveys | Scatter plot vs visit frequency |
Predictions and Future Trends for New Zealand Casinos
I keep an eye on New Zealand’s casinos like they’re an experiment: tiny changes leading to clear outcomes. As global tourism picks up, more people will visit casinos again. Places that offer food, shows, and local experiences will attract more guests than those with just games.
I predict a need for the best land-based casinos in NZ will slowly increase. This rebound relies on flights, special events, and hotels getting their conference business back. The Department of Internal Affairs and Tourism New Zealand expect a gradual recovery, not an instant one.
New technology will change casino floors. Expect easier visits with cashless payments and booking on your phone. Tests of cashless wristbands and on-the-spot loyalty rewards based on play are already underway. These tests make things easier but also raise privacy concerns.
Operators will use real-time data to give targeted promotions and manage how many people are inside. A combination of online and in-person gaming is coming. Live-dealer games streamed to casinos will mix online and physical gaming. Look out for loyalty programs that reward both online and in-person gaming.
Improved security will become more important. Players will want safety that matches the best online casinos in NZ. Casinos will invest in safe payment methods, better IT security, and training for their staff. They need to do this to keep up with tourism standards and legal rules.
Expect changes in casino regulations. We might see stricter rules on adverts, more focus on preventing gambling harm, and tougher anti-money laundering laws. These changes will impact how casinos check who’s playing and manage data. Casinos need to keep up with new rules and privacy practices.
Marketing and signing up new players will change with stricter rules. Stronger checks on player identity and clearer agreement processes for promotions are coming. This means slower growth in new sign-ups but greater trust among careful players.
To get ready, casinos should try out non-cash payments, asses how new tech impacts privacy, and start small with tailored offers. Small tests can highlight issues without risking everything.
In the end, success will go to those blending great service, smart technology, and clear rules. The best will be known for unforgettable visits, honest data management, and connecting online with in-person gaming.
Tools, Resources, and Sources for Casino Research
I keep a handy toolkit for evaluating casinos and websites. I start with government and operator reports for licensing and financial details. This gives a clear picture of their legal status and trends in visitor numbers. I also look at independent research to make sure I’m getting the whole story.
Official resources
The Department of Internal Affairs and the Gambling Commission provide lists of licenses, rules, and updates. SkyCity Entertainment Group and other operators publish annual reports. These show how many people visit and how much money they make. I always read these first to check the claims about New Zealand’s best land-based casinos.
Independent data sources
Market analysts and Tourism New Zealand share data and trends. Trade magazines also have valuable info. I use this data to see if what operators say is true. Independent reports also tell me if a site is a reliable online casino in New Zealand or just good at marketing.
Practical visitor tools
- Google Maps and venue maps for finding your way, parking, and entry details.
- Real-time event calendars on websites show what’s happening and when it’s busy.
- Apps for booking tables and restaurants help skip the lines.
- Use simple calculators to plan your gaming budget: decide on time, maximum loss, and bet per game.
I have a budgeting tip: keep your gaming budget separate from travel money. This way, your play funds are clear. I decide how long to play and stick to it.
Privacy and cookies
Always check the cookie settings on casino websites. You can say no to advertising cookies to get less targeted ads. Look at the privacy notices to see what kind of data the site gathers.
Quick checklist before you trust a source
- Check if the website shows its licenses and who regulates them.
- Are the financial details up-to-date and clear?
- Do third-party reports confirm what players say about the best online games or casino features?
- Is the site or venue named in lists of licensed online casinos in New Zealand, if that’s relevant?
I use a blend of official records, third-party analysis, and handy tools. This approach helps me decide if a place is truly the best land-based casino in New Zealand. Or if an online casino is trustworthy for playing. These small steps save time and avoid unwanted surprises.
Conclusion
In exploring New Zealand’s casinos, the main point is clear: choose places that combine good rules with the fun you seek. Make sure to look at the casino’s licence from the Department of Internal Affairs. Also, reading their yearly reports and checking what they offer is smart. For a lot of gamers, the best casino is one that follows the rules, offers clear help for safe gambling, and has the right games and vibe.
Physical casinos still excel when it comes to live excitement, eating out, and special events. Yet, I compare their game options and how much players typically win back with the top online casinos in New Zealand. Trustworthy online casinos bring the ease and variety you might miss in person. They’re good to try if you want certain stakes or games that aren’t on the casino floor.
Here’s what to do: make sure the casino has a valid licence, look into their safe gambling tools, and compare game returns and betting limits. Also, see what experts say about them. When I go, I have a simple list: I check their licence, set a budget, look at the event lineup, and decide if I want a great atmosphere or just to focus on the games. Following these steps and using helpful data can lead to a safer and more fun visit.