It is no secret that the general public is not entirely on board with Auckland’s plans to give SkyCity 500 new poker machines. Even though the casino operator will be building the city’ new $350 million convention centre, residents believe that the cons outweigh the pros – and a new report proves it. Market Economics has discovered that the local community will lose out on more than £3.5 million in gaming funding.

This means that healthcare, arts, education and sports organizations will lose out on the funds they require to operate. As a result, the local community will be the one to suffer, ultimately. While poker machines continue to contribute a great deal to local community organizations, those located in casinos pay much lower taxes.

With 500 new poker machines, SkyCity will be detracting business from pokies clubs, which donate much more money to pokies trusts. In addition, concerns have been presented about the impact that the new machines will have on problem gambling rates. With more poker machines in the country, will problem gambling rates rise? The Greens would like to see a report on the subject, but the government has yet to oblige.

About the Author

George Anderson
Author George, has over 25+ years’ experience in the Pokies and Casinos industry throughout Australia and New Zealand. Loves to research new Pokies games on the block and follows announcements from top industry providers about their upcoming releases. As soon as a new interesting pokie game appears on his radar, George is there to check it out and give you the scoop before anyone else and tell you about all casino sites where can play the latest game. Before this gig, George worked as Pokie game tester, making him an ideal candidate for this genre of work. He is also an animal lover and a proud owner of three dogs.