2026 NLHC Main Event Phase 1 Satellite — NZ$25
17 Oct – 28 Nov 2026 · Christchurch Casino, New Zealand
The cheapest way into Christchurch Casino's championship week, and the first rung of a two-phase ladder. Buy-in is NZ$25 (NZ$21 plus a NZ$4 fee) for a 4,000 starting stack, with a NZ$25 re-buy and a NZ$25 add-on taken during the first break once the re-buy period has closed; the add-on is worth 8,000 chips. Levels are fifteen minutes and late registration closes after the second blind level. Play starts at 4.30pm.
Roughly one entrant in ten wins a NZ$210 seat into the Phase 2 satellite, and the casino guarantees at least one Phase 2 seat provided two players enter. Prizes are seats only — non-transferable, no refunds — so this is a step towards the Main Event rather than a cash tournament.
Three dates remain on the calendar after 16 October 2026: Saturday 17 October, Saturday 7 November and Saturday 28 November.
Schedule
| Date | Event | Buy-in | Guarantee |
|---|---|---|---|
| 17 Oct 2026 | Phase 1 Main Event satellite | NZ$25 | — |
| 7 Nov 2026 | Phase 1 Main Event satellite | NZ$25 | — |
| 28 Nov 2026 | Phase 1 Main Event satellite | NZ$25 | — |
Qualify online from New Zealand
Partner rooms run satellites to live festivals like this one. Available from New Zealand:
Frequently asked questions
What does the Phase 1 satellite pay?
NZ$210 seats into the Phase 2 Main Event satellite. About one entrant in ten qualifies, and at least one seat is guaranteed as long as two players enter.
What are the re-buy and add-on?
A NZ$25 re-buy, and a NZ$25 add-on worth 8,000 chips taken during the first break after the re-buy period closes. The starting stack is 4,000.
Which dates are left?
Saturday 17 October, Saturday 7 November and Saturday 28 November 2026, all starting at 4.30pm.