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 a mathematical advantage, and outcomes are determined by random chance. Please gamble only with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
Online gambling in New Zealand is strictly for persons aged 18 years and over. If you are under the legal gambling age, please do not participate. We take age verification seriously to protect young people from the risks of gambling.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, problem gambling may be developing:
- Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
- Chasing losses by gambling more to win money back
- Hiding gambling activity or lying about the amount gambled
- Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or negative emotions
- Neglecting family, work, or personal responsibilities
- Borrowing money or going into debt to gamble
- Feeling anxious or irritable when unable to gamble
- Failed attempts to cut down or stop gambling
- Jeopardizing relationships, job, or education due to gambling
Self-Help Tools
Many online gambling platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose
- Time Limits: Limit the duration of your gaming sessions
- Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders about how long you have been playing
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling platforms
Use these tools proactively to maintain responsible gaming habits.
Get Help & Support
If you or someone you care about is struggling with problem gambling, confidential help and support is available:
New Zealand
- Gambling Helpline (NZ): 0800 664 262 — Free, confidential support 24/7
- Problem Gambling Foundation: www.problemgambling.nz
International Support Services
- GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (UK): www.gamstop.co.uk — National self-exclusion scheme
- Gambling Help Online (Australia): www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (USA): www.ncpgambling.org
If You Need Help
Problem gambling is a real issue, but help is available. If gambling is causing problems in your life, reaching out for support is a sign of strength. Contact the Gambling Helpline NZ on 0800 664 262 or visit www.problemgambling.nz for confidential assistance.
You are not alone, and recovery is possible.