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. Remember that all games of chance are designed with a built-in house edge, meaning that over time, the odds favour the casino. Play only with money you can afford to lose, and never gamble more than you can comfortably spare.
Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years of age to participate in online gambling in New Zealand. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to gamble online. If you are under 18, please do not attempt to access gambling services. We take age verification seriously and comply with all local regulations.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may indicate problem gambling:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding gambling activity or lying about the amount spent
- Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, food, bills)
- Gambling for longer periods than intended
- Feeling anxious or irritable when trying to reduce or stop gambling
- Neglecting family, friends, work, or study due to gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble or pay off gambling debts
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Using gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or depression
- Needing to gamble with larger amounts to feel the same excitement
Self-Help Tools and Controls
Most reputable online gambling platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a daily, weekly, or monthly limit on how much you can deposit
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose in a given period
- Reality Checks: Enable reminders during gaming sessions to check how much time you've spent
- Session Time Limits: Set maximum duration for each gaming session
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling platforms
- Account Closure: Close your account if you need to step away from gambling
Use these tools proactively to maintain responsible gaming habits.
Support Organisations for New Zealand
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, professional support is available:
New Zealand-Based Support
-
Gambling Helpline (Aotearoa New Zealand): Free, confidential support
Phone: 0800 654 655
Available 24/7 -
Problem Gambling Foundation:
Website: www.pgf.nz
Provides free counselling and support services throughout New Zealand -
Gamblers Anonymous: Support meetings across New Zealand
Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz
International Support Resources
-
GamCare (UK):
www.gamcare.org.uk -
GamStop (UK Self-Exclusion Scheme):
www.gamstop.co.uk -
Gambling Help Online (Australia):
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au -
Responsible Gambling Council (Canada):
www.responsiblegambling.org -
National Council on Problem Gambling (US):
www.ncpgambling.org
If You Need Help
Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you are experiencing problem gambling, please reach out to one of the support organisations listed above. Professional counsellors are available to help you regain control and find a path forward.
Remember: gambling should only ever be entertainment. If it is causing you stress, financial hardship, or affecting your relationships and wellbeing, it's time to seek support.
Contact the Gambling Helpline today: 0800 654 655