Poker: A full house is expected

John Turnbull with the poker trophies and other prizes on the line this weekend in the Wanganui Open and the Omaha Classic. Photo/Stuart Munro

You'll have to know when to hold'em and know when to fold'em this weekend as the 4 Kings Poker Club holds its third annual Wanganui Open Championships tomorrow, followed by the Pot Limit Omaha Classic on Sunday.

Last year's Open attracted a sellout of 100 players for the Saturday event and club spokesman John Turnbull expected a similar number tomorrow at Stella Restaurant and Bar.

"It's a huge weekend, it will be absolutely packed."

While the club is behind organising the Open, and most of its 40-odd members take part, the officiating is neutral as per Department of Internal Affairs' requirements.

"It's all run by a professional tournament director," said Turnbull.

There will be a maximum $5000 prize pool for both weekend tournaments.

Entrants often come from Wellington, Hawke's Bay, Taupo, Taranaki and Palmerston North to take part.

Tomorrow after final registrations the players will begin at 11am on tables of about eight people each, and eventually work their way down to the finale around 9pm on Saturday.

It is no limit Texas Hold'Em, with 15 minutes taken for the first six blinds (forced bets), then 20 minutes from then on.

There is a $45 entry fee to begin with 10,000 chips, and players can have a $30 re-buy if they are eliminated during the first six blinds, with $30 add-ons also available after that time.

Cash prizes are paid to the players who make either the top 10 per cent of the field or get to the final nine-player table.

Sunday's Pot Limit Omaha Classic will also begin at 11am, after registrations from 10am onwards, with similar rules in place.

Stella will have drink and food specials during the event. The public are welcome to register on both mornings.