Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment

Online pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While gaming can be fun and exciting, it's important to approach it responsibly and within your means.

Remember: the house always has a mathematical advantage. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose.

Age Verification

Online gambling in New Zealand is only legal for people aged 18 years and over. If you are under 18, you are not permitted to participate in online pokies or any form of gambling.

By accessing this site, you confirm that you are 18 years of age or older.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. Watch for these warning signs:

• Spending more money or time gambling than intended
• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
• Hiding your gambling activities from family, friends, or partners
• Neglecting work, school, family, or hobbies due to gambling
• Using gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or other emotional problems
• Borrowing money or getting into debt to fund gambling
• Feeling anxious or irritable when unable to gamble
• Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
• Experiencing financial difficulties because of gambling
• Lying about the extent of your gambling involvement

If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, seek help immediately.

Self-Help Tools & Controls

Most reputable online gaming operators offer 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 in a session or period
• Betting Limits: Control the maximum stake per spin or game
• Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders during gaming sessions about how long you've been playing
• Time Limits: Set automatic session timeouts to prevent extended play
• Self-Exclusion: Exclude yourself from gaming sites for a set period or permanently
• Account Closure: Permanently close your gaming account if needed

Use these tools to maintain control over your gaming activity and protect your wellbeing.

Support Organisations & Resources

If you're struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Contact these organisations:

New Zealand

• Gambling Helpline (NZ) – Free, confidential support
  • Phone: 0800 654 655
  • Available 24/7
  • Website: www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
• Problem Gambling Foundation (NZ)
  • Website: www.pgf.nz
  • Offers counselling and support services

International Support

• GamCare (UK) – www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop (UK 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 (USA) – www.ncpgambling.org

If You Need Help

Don't wait – reach out today. Problem gambling is a serious issue, but support is available and recovery is possible.

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling:

• Call the Gambling Helpline (NZ) on 0800 654 655 – it's free and confidential
• Visit www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz for online chat and resources
• Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation for professional counselling
• Talk to your GP, who can refer you to local support services

Your wellbeing is what matters most. Seek help without shame – it's a sign of strength.