Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Fun, Not a Financial Solution
Online pokies and casino games are designed purely for entertainment. They should never be viewed as a way to earn money, pay bills, or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and losses are a normal part of gaming. Please play responsibly and within your means.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gaming in New Zealand. If you are under 18, you are not permitted to access or use any gaming services. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet the legal age requirement before engaging with any online pokies or casino platforms.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognize any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may indicate problem gambling:
- Spending more money or time gaming than intended
- Chasing losses by continuing to gamble to win back money
- Hiding gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
- Neglecting work, study, or family responsibilities due to gaming
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gaming
- Experiencing anxiety, depression, or stress related to gaming or financial losses
- Unsuccessful attempts to reduce or stop gaming
- Using gaming to escape problems or negative emotions
- Feeling irritable or anxious when unable to gamble
- Lying about the extent of your gaming activity
If you identify with any of these warning signs, please seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Controls
Most responsible gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount of money you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose in a given period
- Session Time Limits: Restrict how long you can play in a single session
- Reality Checks: Receive reminders during gameplay about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming platforms for a set period
- Account Closure: Permanently close your gaming account if you wish to stop entirely
Take advantage of these tools to maintain control over your gaming activity.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Please reach out to one of these trusted organizations:
New Zealand & Pacific
- Problem Gambling Foundation (New Zealand)
Free, confidential support and counseling
Website: www.pgf.nz
Helpline: 0800 664 262 - Gambling Helpline (New Zealand)
24/7 free and confidential support
Helpline: 0800 654 655
International Resources
- GamCare (United Kingdom)
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (United Kingdom)
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 (United States)
www.ncpgambling.org
If You Need Help
Problem gambling is treatable, and recovery is possible. If you are experiencing difficulties with your gaming, please don't hesitate to contact one of the support organizations listed above. They provide free, confidential, and non-judgmental assistance.
Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. The sooner you seek support, the sooner you can regain control of your life.
Remember: You are not alone. Help is available 24/7.