Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online pokies and casino games should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and there is no guaranteed way to win. Please gamble only with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
In New Zealand, online gambling is restricted to individuals who are 18 years of age or older. By accessing online pokies, you confirm that you are of legal age to gamble in your jurisdiction. Licensed operators are required to verify your age before allowing you to play.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in your own behaviour, you may be developing a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by gambling more money to recover what you've lost
- Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
- Hiding gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
- Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or other negative emotions
- Neglecting work, study, or family responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money or using credit to fund gambling
- Feeling anxious or irritable when unable to gamble
- Lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
- Experiencing financial difficulties as a result of gambling
Self-Help Tools & Safer Gambling Features
Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe
- Loss Limits: Establish a limit on how much you're willing to lose
- Session Time Limits: Set reminders or automatic logout after a set period
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic notifications showing your gambling activity and balance
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from an operator's platform
Make use of these features to help maintain healthy gambling habits. Take regular breaks and never gamble under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Support Organisations in New Zealand & Beyond
If you're struggling with gambling, professional help is available. The following organisations provide free, confidential support:
New Zealand
- Gambling Helpline (NZ): Free phone counselling and support
www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz - Problem Gambling Foundation (NZ): Support, resources, and referrals
www.pgf.nz
Australia (Neighbouring Region)
- Gambling Help Online: Counselling and support services
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
United Kingdom
- GamCare: Free support for problem gamblers
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop: National self-exclusion scheme
www.gamstop.co.uk
Other Regions
- Canada - Responsible Gambling Council:
www.responsiblegambling.org - United States - National Council on Problem Gambling:
www.ncpgambling.org
Seek Help Today
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, please reach out for help immediately. Gambling problems are treatable, and support is available 24/7 from confidential and free services. Recovery is possible, and you don't have to face this alone.
Contact the Gambling Helpline (NZ) today: Free phone counselling available.