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. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and there is no guaranteed way to win. Play only with money you can afford to lose, and set strict limits before you start.

Age Verification

You must be 18 years of age or older to play online pokies in New Zealand. This is a legal requirement. If you are under 18, please do not use online gambling services. If you are concerned about a young person's gambling, contact the organisations listed below.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. Be aware of these warning signs:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
• Hiding your gambling activities from friends and family
• Gambling with money needed for essentials (rent, food, bills)
• Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
• Neglecting work, study, or personal relationships due to gambling
• Feeling anxious or irritable when unable to gamble
• Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
• Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
• Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
• Lying about the extent of your gambling

If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, seek help immediately.

Self-Help Tools

Most reputable online gaming operators offer tools to help you stay in 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 are willing to lose
• Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders of how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
• Time-Out: Take a break from gambling for a set period while remaining in control
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing gambling services

Use these tools to maintain control and protect your wellbeing.

Support Organisations

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available:

New Zealand

• Problem Gambling Foundation
  Free and confidential support for problem gambling
  Phone: 0800 664 262 (free call)
  Website: www.problemgambling.nz
• Gambling Helpline
  24/7 helpline for problem gambling support
  Phone: 0800 006 886 (free call)
  Text: HELP to 4567

International Support (if needed)

• GamCare (UK)
  www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop (UK 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 (US)
  www.ncpgambling.org

If You Need Help

If you are experiencing problems with gambling, please reach out for support today. Problem gambling is treatable, and support services are free and confidential. There is no shame in seeking help. Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation or Gambling Helpline (numbers above) to speak with a trained counsellor who can provide guidance and support.

Remember: your health and wellbeing are more important than any game.