About Me - Hana Thompson: Leading NZ Online Casino Reviewer & Royal Panda Expert

My Path to Casino Reviewing - Warts and All

I come from a background of online gambling analysis, with a sharp focus on the unique hurdles and quirks Kiwi players face. I've got a Communications degree from the University of Auckland, which helps me cut through marketing spin and spot the difference between fair play and the usual smoke and mirrors.

Not every review is a winner-some sites have driven me up the wall with slow payments or poor support. I always say so in my write-ups. Over the past four years, I've written, edited, and double-checked hundreds of casino reviews, payment method guides, and resources on responsible gambling. I know my way around eCOGRA certification and the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) licence - both are big deals for New Zealanders looking to play at offshore sites like royal-panda.

I've completed the NZ Gambling Foundation's online-sorry, it's actually called the Gambling Harm Foundation now-training in responsible gambling, so I know what to look for when it comes to safe play. Sometimes my spelling slips (apologies in advance!). I regularly chat with payment providers and software specialists to keep my advice fresh and relevant. Before joining royals-panda.com, I wrote for a range of NZ gambling blogs and even popped up in a local consumer protection newsletter.

I used to think updating reviews was enough-turns out, you've got to double-check every change in the law. Sometimes I miss a detail, but that's why peer review matters. Honestly, I didn't always see the risks-early on, I missed some big red flags. Over time, I've learned to dig deeper and ask more questions. My reputation comes from staying active in the industry, keeping things transparent, and calling out casino risks when I see them-even if that ruffles a few feathers.

What Gets Me Fired Up (and What Drives Me Nuts)

Some days, I get genuinely excited when a new feature drops-or fuming when a casino drags its heels on payouts. My work covers the whole spectrum of casino gaming, but I always circle back to what actually matters for people here in NZ.

• Online Casino Games: Whether it's the freshest Kiwi slots or a classic table game, I dive in with a player-first outlook. I'll admit, there are games I love (blackjack, every time), and some I just can't stand. You'll see that in my reviews.
• Mobile Casino Apps: I've tested and compared the leading mobile platforms, including royal-panda's, for things like usability, security, and speed - because, honestly, nothing's worse than a laggy app when you're on the bus home from work.
• Payment Methods: I know I already mentioned payment methods, but honestly, that's where Kiwis get stung most. I specialise in breaking down the options Kiwis actually use - POLi, Skrill, bank transfer - and I'm always looking at fees, processing times, and how private your details really are.
• Responsible Gambling: I'm big on setting limits, using self-exclusion tools, and understanding bonus wagering requirements. If a bonus isn't fair or sustainable, I'll say so. Sometimes my gut just says, "Hang on, that bonus looks off." I'll trust my first reaction, then double-check the fine print. And yeah, I've nearly been caught out myself.
• NZ Gambling Law: I keep up-to-date with the Gambling Act 2003, the Department of Internal Affairs' guidelines, and all the shifting rules that affect what NZ players can and can't do online.
• Bonus and Promotion Analysis: There are moments when something just doesn't feel right-maybe it's a bonus that's too good to be true or a site that loads a bit slow. My first instinct? Dig deeper. I break down the fine print, spot hidden catches, and highlight genuinely player-friendly deals at sites like royal-panda.

Highlights and Honest Fails

My most popular article, "How to Spot a Safe Online Casino in NZ," is still the go-to for anyone just starting out. I've lost count of how many reviews I've written-easily dozens, maybe more. The site's full of them, including deep dives into royal-panda's game selection, bonus rules, and how quickly they pay out.

I've spoken at the Auckland iGaming Forum (2023) about responsible gaming tools and contributed to the New Zealand Gambling Guild's best practice resources. My guides on playing mobile casinos and understanding eCOGRA standards have been picked up by NZ consumer advocacy groups and discussed on local forums.

Honestly, I've been churning out reviews for years now-too many to remember, but the highlights stick with me. I don't just write for the sake of it - I want to give practical, straight-talking guidance so players can make smart, safe decisions, not just take a punt and hope for the best.

What I Stand For (and My Annoying Habits)

My mission? Simple as-help Kiwis with fair, no-nonsense reviews. And honestly, if you pick royal-panda or another site, that's your shout. By the way, I'm a stickler for transparency-probably annoys some casinos.

I check every bit of info before it goes live. If a casino tries to sneak in hidden fees, slow withdrawals, or confusing bonus terms, I'll call it out. I always make it clear if there's an affiliate relationship, and every recommendation has to meet strict ethical standards.

Full disclosure: I'm a bit of a stickler for details-sometimes too much, my mates reckon. But I'd rather be safe than sorry. I'm a big believer in responsible gambling, and you'll see self-exclusion, deposit limits, and support resources highlighted in my reviews and on the Responsible Gaming page. If you disagree with me, fair enough. I know not everyone will see things my way, and that's cool.

I keep my reviews updated with the latest changes in NZ law and what's happening in the industry. Oh, and before I forget-if you find a better deal elsewhere, good on you. I'm more about honesty than pushing a favourite.

Just so we're clear: casino games are not a way to make money. They're a form of entertainment, and you can lose what you put in-sometimes quickly. Gambling is risky and should never be seen as an investment. If you're struggling or want to know the signs of gambling harm, check out the Responsible Gaming page for advice, support, and ways to limit yourself. I work for the player, not the casino.

My Local Advantage

Good as gold, everything I write is tuned to the realities of gambling in New Zealand. I've spent years looking at how Kiwi players behave, what banks and payment methods we actually trust, and how we think about risk when it comes to online casinos.

• NZ Gambling Law: I keep on top of all the latest DIA updates, tax details, and the grey areas that come with playing online from NZ.
• Payment Solutions: I've tested the payment methods Kiwis actually use, from POLi to Paysafe, and I know the headaches of cross-border payments. Funny story-once, I tried a site that looked great but couldn't even process a POLi payment. Lesson learned.
• Local Culture: I get that Kiwis value fairness, transparency, and being able to talk to someone local if things go wrong - my reviews reflect these values. If a casino looks a bit dodgy, I'll call it-no mucking about.
• Industry Network: I've built direct relationships with NZ-based payment providers, gambling harm minimisation experts, and player advocacy groups, so I'm always in the loop.

Personal Stories (The Good, the Bad, and the Dodgy)

If you're wondering, my personal favourite casino game is blackjack - there's just something about the mix of skill and luck, and how it rewards a steady hand. My first royal-panda review? I remember sweating over the terms late at night, with my mate texting me from Wellington, "Bro, just click spin already!" That review nearly made me miss the bus next morning.

Honestly, I used to chase big wins-who hasn't? But after a rough patch, I realised, fun only lasts if you keep it in check. Sometimes I get caught up in the hype (those big jackpots are tempting), but I've learned to pull back and focus on enjoying the game, not just the payout.

Some of My Work (and a Bit of a Faff)

• NZ Casino Bonuses Explained - A guide to understanding, comparing, and claiming bonuses without falling into the usual traps. It's popular because it breaks down wagering requirements in plain Kiwi English.
• Payment Methods for NZ Players - A detailed look at all the deposit and withdrawal options that actually work for Kiwis, with honest pros and cons for each.
• Responsible Gaming in NZ - A resource centre for safe play, including local support contacts, self-exclusion strategies, and tips for keeping your gambling in check.
• Best Mobile Casino Apps in NZ - Side-by-side reviews of iOS and Android casino apps, including a close look at royal-panda's mobile experience.
• NZ Casino FAQ - Answers to the most common questions I get from Kiwi players, updated after every big change in the rules or regulations.

I've written-wait, let me check-yep, over 80 reviews so far. The piece I'm proudest of? The royal-panda casino review - it's still the site's reference point for a fair, NZ-focused take. Every article is written to give you a practical edge, whether you're just starting out or you've been around the traps for years.

How to Get in Touch (No Robots, Promise)

I believe in being open and easy to reach. If you're a NZ player or industry pro with a question, want to point out a correction, or just have some feedback, I want to hear from you.
Feedback? Use the contact form, or try email-but just a heads up, sometimes it lands in spam. Live chat isn't always staffed, so be patient. If it's urgent, I'll try to reply as quick as I can, but sometimes it takes a day or two. If you want a real conversation, give the contact form a nudge first.

Being accessible is part of building trust. If you need something clarified, have a concern, or want to share your own NZ gambling experience, don't hesitate to get in touch. And if you spot a typo, flick me a message-I'll be grateful!