Craps: The Ultimate Guide to the Dice Table
Regulatory information reviewed 29 September 2026: Earlier unsupported claims about New Zealand licensing, mandatory features or guaranteed protections have been removed. For current rules and licensing status, consult the Department of Internal Affairs. A licence, review or badge does not guarantee a win or eliminate gambling harm. Support information.
The Basic Flow: How to Play
A round of craps is divided into two distinct phases. Understanding these is the secret to following the game:
The Come Out Roll
This is the first roll of a new round. You place your bet on the Pass Line.
- Natural (7 or 11): You win immediately.
- Craps (2, 3, or 12): You lose immediately.
- The Point: If any other number is rolled (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10), that number becomes the “Point.”
The Point Phase
Once a Point is established, the “Puck” on the digital table flips to ON. The shooter continues to roll the dice until one of two things happens:
- The Point is rolled again: You win the Pass Line bet.
- A 7 is rolled (Seven Out): You lose the bet and the round ends.
Live Dealer Craps: The 2026 Experience
The highlight of 2026 technology is the Live Dealer Craps studio. Because it is physically difficult to “stream” a person throwing dice fairly, top-tier providers use a mechanical “Shooter Arm” or a professional dice-slider in a high-tech studio.
- Easy Mode: Many 2026 apps feature an “Easy Mode” UI that hides the complex “Prop Bets” and only shows the basic Pass/Come options.
- Dynamic Statistics: You can see “Hot” and “Cold” numbers in real-time, along with a counter showing how many other Kiwi players are “Rooting” for the same number as you.
Frequently asked questions
What is craps?
Craps is a dice game in which wagers are settled on totals or combinations rolled with two dice. Different bets can remain active for different lengths of time.
What is the point in craps?
A point is one of the totals 4, 5, 6, 8, 9 or 10 established during the appropriate opening roll. What happens next depends on the wager being considered.
Why is seven important in craps?
Seven is the most common total with two fair six-sided dice. It can win or lose a wager depending on the phase of play and the bet type.
Can information about craps guarantee a winning result?
No. Understanding rules does not remove uncertainty or the risk of loss. A game’s payout schedule is not a promise about the result of a particular round or session.
Which rules should I use when checking a craps example?
Use the rules and paytable for the exact version being discussed. Different editions can change payouts, optional features and settlement conditions. General examples do not override those published rules.
Does this guide confirm that a service is authorised in New Zealand?
No. An information page, payment logo or software listing does not establish a particular operator’s status. Check current DIA information for online casino customers and the rules for the specific service.
