Play Blackjack at Dunedin Casino

Blackjack at the Gainsborough Room

You’ll play blackjack in our Gainsborough room, located inside the Scenic Hotel Southern Cross at 118 High Street. The Victorian décor stands out, with plasterwork, mosaic floors, and traces of the Grand Hotel throughout. Blackjack isn’t the only thing running - Baccarat, Roulette, Caribbean Stud Poker are in the mix too.

We’re open from 11am on weekdays and from noon on weekends, and we close by 3am. Doors stay shut on Good Friday and Christmas Day. Bring government photo ID that proves you’re 20 plus, so there are no issues at entry - passport, driver’s licence, HANZ 18+ and other government cards work.

The dress code is not strict, but please keep it tidy. Phones and gadgets should be put away at the table.

How to Join a Table

Simply walk up to the blackjack tables while we’re open and have your ID ready. Supervisors check age before anything starts.

Step into the Gainsborough room, hand your ID to the supervisor, swap cash for chips (either at the cashier or right at the table). Wait until the round ends, then place chips in the circle - that’s your bet. Our dealers handle the rest, using standard blackjack signals rather than verbal calls.

If something’s unclear, our staff notice and help with rules or chips. We’re always trained for responsible gaming, but honestly, if it’s busy, monitoring sometimes slips.

Table Rules and Betting Details

Blackjack is classic here, but not every table’s the same. Some dealers hit soft 17, while at others the dealer stands. Minimum and maximum bets are not fixed, so always ask the supervisor before you buy in.

Here’s what actions you can expect at the table:

Some tables offer extra side bets, and the dealer lets you know if that is the case before cards go out.

Double down and split work just like any casino with regular blackjack rules. If the dealer shows an ace, you can buy insurance.

Bit of the Casino’s Backstory

This building was always the Grand Hotel, designed by Louis Boldini, up since 1883. The venue features ornate Victorian architecture that has been carefully preserved through multiple renovations and rebrandings over the years.

Our location at 118 High Street places us in the heart of Dunedin’s historic district. The Gainsborough Room itself showcases the building’s heritage with original plasterwork and mosaic flooring that dates back to the 19th century.

Responsible Gambling at Our Venue

Our team’s all trained, we have clear host programmes, and can direct you to help on site or outside: [email protected] for Foundation support, Te Kaika Wellbeing Hub at 03 471 9960.

You’ll notice our floor staff checking how play is going, and if someone looks at risk, they may step in - sometimes suggesting breaks, sometimes sharing info about self-exclusion or cooling-off. Any guest can set their own playing limits or ask for a break, for blackjack and other games too.

More Than Just Blackjack

Alongside blackjack, you’ll spot upwards of 170 gaming machines. Try other tables for Roulette, Baccarat for those chasing higher limits, and Caribbean Stud Poker for a different twist.

Want food while you are here? The Grand Restaurant and Bar operate throughout casino hours. Grab a snack or stay for a full meal, your call.

We’re in The Exchange district, 0.5 km south of Dunedin’s centre, at the corner of Princes Street and High Street.

Contact and Location Info

Email us at [email protected] or [email protected]. For urgent questions, call 0800 477 4545 or 03 477 4545 in our opening hours. Staying over? Book a hotel room at 0800 50 1616 or email [email protected].

You will find us on the ground floor of the Scenic Hotel building. Expect ID checks for everyone, no matter how old you look. You can park in street spots or paid lots nearby. Public transport drops you close - High Street has frequent bus stops.

What Your Visit Looks Like

Come by with valid ID anytime we’re open. Betting ranges shift, so double-check what fits your budget with the table supervisor before you pick your stack of chips. We only accept NZ dollars.

Blackjack play follows standard strategies, and the house edge depends on the table rules. If you’re new to the game or just need a rule refresh, our dealers explain everything you need before hands get started, but if it’s busy, don’t hesitate to ask.

Sometimes, staff will come by to check if you might want a break - especially during long sessions. It’s more about keeping play healthy than cutting visitors off. We always try to keep things balanced between the fun of blackjack and taking care of everyone at the tables.