Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Fun, Not a Financial Strategy
Online pokies should be enjoyed as entertainment only. They are games of chance with a house edge, meaning the odds always favour the casino over time. Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose, and never view gaming as a way to earn money or solve financial problems.
If you're in New Zealand and concerned about your gaming habits, help is available.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to use online pokies services in New Zealand. Gambling is not permitted for anyone under the legal age in your jurisdiction. If you are under 18, please do not participate in online gaming.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Ask yourself if any of the following apply to you:
- Spending more time or money on pokies than intended
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to win back money
- Hiding your gambling from family, friends, or partners
- Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or negative emotions
- Neglecting work, school, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money or using credit to fund gambling
- Experiencing mood swings related to gambling wins and losses
- Feeling unable to stop or cut back on gambling despite wanting to
- Losing friendships or relationships due to gambling habits
- Physical symptoms like sleep problems, appetite changes, or stress-related illness
If you recognize any of these signs, seek support immediately.
Self-Help Tools to Keep Gaming Safe
Most responsible online pokies providers offer tools to help you maintain control:
- 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 time period
- Time Limits: Set automatic session time limits to remind you when to take a break
- Reality Checks: Enable pop-up reminders during play to check how much time and money you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from your account for a set period (days, weeks, months, or permanently)
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if needed
Use these tools proactively. They are designed to help you stay in control of your gaming.
Get Help β Support Organizations in New Zealand and Beyond
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, confidential support is available:
New Zealand
- Gambling Helpline (NZ) β Free, confidential support
Phone: 0800 654 655
Website: www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
Available 24/7 with trained counsellors - Problem Gambling Foundation (NZ)
Website: www.pgf.nz
Information, resources, and support services
International Support
- UK β GamCare
www.gamcare.org.uk - UK β GamStop (National Self-Exclusion Scheme)
www.gamstop.co.uk - Australia β Gambling Help Online
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au - Canada β Responsible Gambling Council
www.responsiblegambling.org - USA β National Council on Problem Gambling
www.ncpgambling.org
Take Action Today
If you think you might have a problem with gambling, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. The organisations listed above provide free, confidential support.
Don't wait β contact the Gambling Helpline (NZ) today on 0800 654 655 or visit www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
You deserve to enjoy gaming responsibly and safely.