Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income

Online pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While gaming can be fun and exciting, it's important to remember that the house always has an edge. Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose, and always set strict limits before you play.

Age Verification

You must be 18 years of age or older to gamble legally in New Zealand. If you are under 18, gambling is prohibited by law. If you are unsure about your age or eligibility, please contact your gaming provider before playing.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop quickly and silently. If you recognize any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek help:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
• Hiding your gambling activity or lying about how much you gamble
• Spending more time and money on gambling than planned
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when trying to cut down or stop
• Using gambling to escape problems, stress, anxiety, or depression
• Neglecting family, work, school, or other important responsibilities
• Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts
• Experiencing financial difficulties due to gambling
• Loss of interest in hobbies and activities you once enjoyed
• Relationship conflicts or isolation from loved ones

Self-Help Tools & Resources

Most reputable online gaming providers offer tools to help you maintain control over your gambling. Consider using:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit in a day, week, or month
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose before stopping play
• Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders of how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
• Session Time Limits: Automatically end your gaming session after a set period
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming accounts
• Account Closure: Close your account if you decide to stop gambling entirely

Support Organizations for New Zealand

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, confidential help and support are available:

New Zealand

• Gambling Helpline NZ – Free, confidential support
  Phone: 0800 654 655 (24/7)
  Website: www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
• Samaritans Aotearoa New Zealand – Crisis support
  Phone: 1737 (call or text, 24/7, free)
  Website: www.1737.org.nz
• Problem Gambling Foundation – Support and counselling
  Website: www.pgf.nz

International Support (if needed)

• GamCare (UK) – www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop (UK) – National Self-Exclusion Scheme – www.gamstop.co.uk
• 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, Reach Out Today

Problem gambling is a real issue, but recovery is possible. If you're concerned about your gambling or that of a friend or family member, please don't hesitate to contact one of the organizations listed above. All calls and communications are confidential and free. Your mental health and wellbeing matter — help is just a phone call away.

Remember: Gambling should be fun. If it's no longer fun, it's time to seek support.