Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While gaming can be fun, it's important to understand that the odds always favour the house in the long run. Please gamble responsibly and within your means.
Age Verification
All players must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gaming in Aotearoa New Zealand. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to engage in gambling activities. If you are not of legal age, please do not proceed.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you or someone you know experience any of the following, it may be time to seek help:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to recover money lost
- Hiding gambling activities or lying about the amount of time or money spent
- Being unable to cut down or stop gambling despite wanting to
- Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, food, bills)
- Neglecting family, work, school, or other important responsibilities
- Experiencing anxiety, depression, or mood changes related to gambling
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Feeling a need to gamble with increasing amounts to achieve the same excitement
- Continuing to gamble despite negative consequences
Self-Help Tools
Many online gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control over your gambling:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period
- Loss Limits: Set a cap on the amount you're willing to lose
- Reality Checks: Receive reminders about how long you've been playing or how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming accounts
- Session Timers: Set automatic alerts to take breaks during gaming sessions
Use these tools to keep your gaming experience safe and enjoyable.
Support Organisations in Aotearoa New Zealand
If you're struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Contact these organisations:
New Zealand
- Gambling Helpline (Te Whakahuatanga Moni): Free, confidential support available 24/7
Phone: 0800 654 655
Website: www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz - Problem Gambling Foundation: Information and support services
Phone: 09 359 6677
Website: www.problemgambling.nz
International Resources
- Australia - Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- United Kingdom - GamCare: www.gamcare.org.uk
- United Kingdom - GamStop: www.gamstop.co.uk
- Canada - Responsible Gambling Council: www.responsiblegambling.org
- United States - National Council on Problem Gambling: www.ncpgambling.org
Need Help?
If you or someone you care about is struggling with problem gambling, please reach out for help today. Support is confidential, free, and available. You don't have to face this alone.
Contact the Gambling Helpline (Te Whakahuatanga Moni) in New Zealand: 0800 654 655
Remember: Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.