Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Fun, Not a Financial Solution
Online pokies should be enjoyed purely as entertainment. They are games of chance with built-in house advantages, and no strategy or system can guarantee winnings. Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose, and never view gambling as a way to earn income or solve financial problems.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to gamble online in New Zealand. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to participate in online pokies or casino games. If you are under 18, please do not use gambling services. Parents and guardians are encouraged to monitor online activity and discuss the risks of gambling with young people.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following behaviours in yourself or someone you know, problem gambling may be developing:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Gambling with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same excitement
- Hiding gambling activity or lying about the time and money spent
- Neglecting family, work, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
- Using gambling to cope with stress, anxiety, or negative emotions
- Feeling irritable or anxious when trying to reduce or stop gambling
- Borrowing money or using credit to fund gambling
- Experiencing relationship conflicts related to gambling habits
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Gambling more frequently or for longer periods than intended
Self-Help Tools & Controls
Responsible gaming platforms offer practical tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Cap the maximum amount you are willing to lose in a gaming session
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders of how long you have been gambling and how much you have spent
- Time Limits: Set automatic session timeouts to prevent extended play
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from online gambling platforms
- Account Closure: Permanently close your gaming account if needed
Most reputable operators provide these tools within your account settings. Use them proactively to stay in control.
Support Organisations for New Zealand & Beyond
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. The following organisations provide free, confidential support:
New Zealand
- Gambling Helpline NZ: Free phone and text support — 0800 654 655 (available 24/7)
- Problem Gambling Foundation: Support services and resources — www.pgf.nz
- Samaritans: Emotional support for distress — 1737, Free Call or Text
International Support
- GamCare (UK): Counselling and support — www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (UK): National self-exclusion scheme — www.gamstop.co.uk
- Gambling Help Online (Australia): Counselling and resources — www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): Resources and support — www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (US): Helpline 1-800-522-4700 — www.ncpgambling.org
Take Action Today
If gambling is affecting your life, finances, relationships, or mental health, reach out for help now. There is no shame in seeking support — counsellors are trained to help without judgment.
Contact the Gambling Helpline NZ: 0800 654 655 or text 8393 — Free, confidential, and available 24/7.
Your wellbeing matters. Responsible gaming is about enjoying entertainment safely and staying in control.