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. The house always has an edge, and there is no guaranteed way to win. Please gamble only with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
Online gambling in New Zealand is available only to individuals aged 18 years and older. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet the legal age requirement in your jurisdiction before participating in any online gaming activity.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, seek help immediately:
- Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
- Chasing losses by gambling more to win back money
- Hiding gambling activity from friends or family
- Neglecting work, school, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money or going into debt to gamble
- Feeling anxious or irritable when unable to gamble
- Using gambling to escape problems or relieve stress
- Failed attempts to reduce or stop gambling
Self-Help Tools
Most reputable online gaming operators provide responsible gambling tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a daily, weekly, or monthly limit on deposits
- Loss Limits: Cap the amount you're willing to lose in a set timeframe
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders of how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Session Time Limits: Automatically close your account after a set duration
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling
Take advantage of these tools to maintain control over your gambling habits.
Support Organisations
If you are struggling with problem gambling, confidential support is available:
New Zealand
- Gambling Helpline NZ: Free, confidential support
Phone: 0800 654 655
Website: www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz - Problem Gambling Foundation: Support and information for problem gamblers and their families
Website: www.problemgambling.org.nz
Other Regions
- United Kingdom — GamCare: www.gamcare.org.uk
- United Kingdom — GamStop: www.gamstop.co.uk
- Australia — Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Canada — Responsible Gambling Council: www.responsiblegambling.org
- United States — National Council on Problem Gambling: www.ncpgambling.org
Need Help?
If gambling is affecting your life, your relationships, or your finances, reach out for support today. There is no shame in asking for help, and professional counsellors are available to assist you confidentially. Contact the Gambling Helpline NZ on 0800 654 655 or visit one of the support organisations listed above.
Remember: You are not alone, and help is available.