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. While playing can be fun, it's important to remember that the house always has a mathematical advantage. Play only with money you can afford to lose, and never gamble with funds needed for essential expenses like rent, bills, or food.
Age Verification
Online pokies in New Zealand are strictly for players aged 18 years and over. It is illegal for anyone under this age to gamble. If you are under 18, please do not participate in any gambling activities. Operators are required to verify age and identity before allowing access to gaming platforms.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Do you recognise any of these warning signs in your behaviour? If so, it may be time to seek help:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Gambling with increasing amounts to achieve the same excitement
- Hiding gambling activities or lying about the time and money spent
- Neglecting family, work, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
- Experiencing mood swings, irritability, or anxiety when unable to gamble
- Using gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Thinking constantly about gambling or planning the next session
- Experiencing financial difficulties or relationship problems due to gambling
Self-Help Tools and Protections
Most reputable online gaming platforms offer built-in tools to help you gamble responsibly:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose during a gaming session
- Reality Checks: Receive notifications at regular intervals during play to remind you of time elapsed and money spent
- Session Timers: Set time limits for your gaming sessions
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from an operator's platform
- Account Closure: Request a permanent closure of your gaming account
Use these tools proactively to maintain control over your gambling. Remember, these features are there for your protection.
Support Organisations and Resources for New Zealand
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Please reach out to one of these organisations:
New Zealand
- Gambling Helpline (New Zealand)
Free and confidential support
Phone: 0800 654 655 (available 24/7)
Online: www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz - Problem Gambling Foundation
Support and resources for problem gambling in NZ
Phone: 0800 424 020
Web: www.problemgambling.nz
International Support (if needed)
- GamCare (United Kingdom)
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (United Kingdom Self-Exclusion)
www.gamstop.co.uk - Gambling Help Online (Australia)
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Take Action Today
If you believe you have a gambling problem, please seek help immediately. There is no shame in reaching out — problem gambling is a recognised issue with effective treatments and support available.
Don't wait. Contact the Gambling Helpline (NZ) on 0800 654 655 or visit www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz today. Professional counsellors are ready to listen and help.
Your wellbeing matters. Responsible gaming starts with you.