Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. It is important to understand that gambling is not a reliable way to earn money or solve financial problems. The house always has an advantage, and losses are an expected part of gaming. Set a budget you can afford to lose and stick to it.
Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years of age to participate in online gaming in New Zealand. It is illegal for anyone under this age to gamble. 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, it may indicate a problem with gambling:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding gambling activity or lying about the time and money spent
- Gambling with money needed for essential expenses like rent, bills, or food
- Neglecting work, school, family, or relationships due to gambling
- Feeling anxious or irritable when unable to gamble
- Constantly thinking about gambling or previous gambling experiences
- Needing to gamble with larger amounts to feel the same excitement
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems or relieve stress
- Borrowing money to fund gambling activities
If you experience any of these signs, please reach out for help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most licensed online gaming platforms offer built-in tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a limit on how much you are willing to lose over a set timeframe
- Reality Checks: Enable reminders at regular intervals to check how long you have been playing
- Session Limits: Automatically log you out after a set period of play
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming sites
- Account Cooling Off: Take a break from gaming for a specified period
Take advantage of these tools to maintain control over your gaming activities.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you or someone you know needs help with problem gambling, please contact one of the following organisations:
New Zealand
- Gambling Helpline NZ - Free, confidential support
0800 352 352 (Free phone line)
www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz - Problem Gambling Foundation
www.pgf.nz
International Resources
- GamCare (United Kingdom)
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (United Kingdom - Self-Exclusion)
www.gamstop.co.uk - Gambling Help Online (Australia)
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
www.responsiblegambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling (United States)
www.ncpgambling.org
If You Need Help
If you believe you have a problem with gambling, please seek help today. There is no shame in reaching out. Support is available 24/7, and trained professionals are ready to assist you. Contact your local gambling helpline or visit one of the organisations listed above.
Remember: You are not alone, and help is available.