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 playing can be fun, it's important to approach gaming with realistic expectations and maintain control over your gaming habits.
Remember: The house always has a mathematical edge. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years of age to gamble online in New Zealand. This is a legal requirement designed to protect young people from the potential harms of gambling.
All reputable online casinos verify your age before allowing you to play. If you are under 18, please do not attempt to access gambling services.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Be aware of these warning signs in yourself or others:
- Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding gambling activity or lying about how much you've gambled
- Experiencing mood swings or irritability when not gambling
- Neglecting family, friends, work, or hobbies due to gambling
- Using gambling to cope with stress, anxiety, or depression
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Inability to cut back or stop gambling despite wanting to
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts to get the same excitement
- Feeling anxious or restless when trying to reduce gambling
If you recognize any of these signs, it may be time to seek help.
Self-Help Tools & Limits
Most responsible online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, monthly)
- Loss Limits: Restrict the amount of money you can lose in a given timeframe
- Reality Checks: Receive notifications during your gaming session to remind you how long you've been playing
- Session Time Limits: Automatically log you out after a set period
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently close your account to prevent access to gaming
Use these tools proactively to stay in control of your gaming experience.
Support Organizations in New Zealand
If you're struggling with problem gambling, help is available. New Zealand has dedicated support services:
New Zealand Gambling Support
- Gambling Helpline (NZ): 0800 654 655 (free, confidential, 24/7)
www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz - Problem Gambling Foundation: www.pgf.nz
Provides counseling and support services throughout New Zealand
International Resources
Additional support from recognized international organizations:
- GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk — Free support and counseling
- GamStop (UK): www.gamstop.co.uk — National self-exclusion scheme
- Gambling Help Online (Australia): www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (US): www.ncpgambling.org
Need Help?
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, please reach out for support today. Problem gambling is a treatable condition, and help is available.
Call the Gambling Helpline (NZ): 0800 654 655 — Free, confidential, and available 24/7
Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. There's no shame in reaching out.