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. The odds in all games of chance are always in favour of the operator. Please gamble only what you can afford to lose and set realistic expectations about potential winnings.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gambling in New Zealand. If you are under 18, please do not gamble. Online gambling operators are required to verify your age and identity before allowing you to play.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following warning signs in yourself or someone you know, help is available:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
- Hiding gambling activity or lying about the amount of time and money spent
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Neglecting family, work, or other responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money to fund gambling activities
- Unsuccessful attempts to reduce or stop gambling
- Gambling to escape problems or relieve stress
- Experiencing financial difficulties as a result of gambling
- Spending increasing amounts of time and money on gambling
Self-Help Tools & Controls
Most reputable online gaming operators provide tools to help you manage your gambling responsibly:
- Deposit Limits: Set a daily, weekly, or monthly limit on the amount you can deposit
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose in a specific period
- Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders of how long you have been gambling and how much you have spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from your gaming account
- Take a Break: Use timeout features to pause your account for a set period
Use these tools proactively to maintain control over your gambling activity.
Support Organizations
If you are experiencing problems with gambling, please reach out to one of these trusted support services:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF) – Free, confidential support and counselling
Phone: 0800 664 262 | Website: www.problemgambling.org.nz - Gambling Helpline – 24/7 support line
Phone: 0800 654 655 - Samaritans NZ – Emotional support and crisis assistance
Phone: 1737 (call or text, free) | Website: www.1737.org.nz
International Support Services
- 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 treatable condition. There is no shame in seeking help. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, please contact the Problem Gambling Foundation on 0800 664 262 or visit www.problemgambling.org.nz. Support is confidential and available 24/7.
Gamble responsibly. Gamble within your means.