Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
Online pokies should only be enjoyed as a form of entertainment. They are games of chance, not a reliable way to earn money. Always gamble within your means and remember that the house always has a mathematical advantage. Set a budget you can afford to lose and stick to it.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to access and use online gambling services in New Zealand. This is a legal requirement. If you are under 18, please do not participate in any gambling activities.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in your own behaviour, it may be time to seek help:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to recover money lost
- Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
- Hiding your gambling activities from family, friends, or partners
- Neglecting work, study, or family responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money or using credit to fund gambling
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Experiencing relationship problems due to gambling habits
- Gambling to escape problems or relieve stress
- Lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
- Being unable to reduce or stop gambling despite wanting to
Self-Help Tools & Safer Gambling Features
Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a daily, weekly, or monthly limit on the amount you can deposit
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose in a given period
- Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders about how long you've been gambling and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from an online casino account
- Time Limits: Set a maximum session duration to prevent extended gambling sessions
- Account Closure: Permanently close your gambling account if needed
Make use of these tools to keep your gambling safe and controlled.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you or someone you know needs help with problem gambling, please reach out to one of these trusted organisations:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation NZ – Free confidential counselling and support
www.pgf.nz - Gambling Helpline NZ – Free phone support
Phone: 0800 654 655 (available 24/7)
International Resources
- GamCare (UK) – www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (UK 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
Problem gambling is a serious issue that can affect your financial, mental, and emotional wellbeing. There is no shame in seeking help. If you believe you have a problem with gambling, reach out to the Problem Gambling Foundation NZ or call the Gambling Helpline on 0800 654 655. Support is available, and recovery is possible.
Remember: Gambling should be fun, not harmful.