Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While gaming can be fun and exciting, it's important to understand that the odds always favour the house. Please gamble responsibly and only spend what you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years of age to participate in online gaming in New Zealand. We are committed to preventing underage gambling. If you are under 18, please do not use gaming services.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, help is available:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding gambling activity or lying about the amount of time and money spent
- Gambling with money needed for essentials like rent, bills, or food
- Experiencing difficulty controlling the urge to gamble
- Neglecting family, work, or other responsibilities due to gambling
- Using gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or depression
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Friends or family expressing concern about your gambling habits
- Feeling restless or irritable when trying to reduce or stop gambling
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts to achieve the same excitement
Self-Help Tools
Many online gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control. These may include:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Cap the amount you're willing to lose during a gaming session
- Reality Checks: Receive reminders about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming platforms
- Time Limits: Set restrictions on how long you can play in one session
Take advantage of these tools to keep your gaming experience safe and enjoyable.
Support Organisations
If you're concerned about your gambling or need support, reach out to one of these trusted organisations:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation – Free, confidential support and counselling services across New Zealand. Helpline: 0800 664 262 or visit www.problemgambling.nz
- Gamblers Anonymous – Peer support meetings and resources. Visit www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz
International Support
- GamCare (UK) – Information and support for problem gambling. www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (UK) – National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling. www.gamstop.co.uk
- Gambling Help Online (Australia) – Counselling and support services. www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) – Resources and prevention programs. www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (USA) – Information and referrals. www.ncpgambling.org
Need Help?
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, please reach out for help today. Support is confidential, non-judgmental, and available 24/7. Remember: seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation (NZ) now: 0800 664 262