Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Fun, Not a Way to Make Money
Online pokies are designed as entertainment. While winning is possible, the odds always favour the house. Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose, and never view gambling as a way to earn income or solve financial problems. Treat any winnings as a bonus, not an expectation.
Age Verification
Online gambling in New Zealand is strictly for individuals aged 18 years and over. It is your responsibility to verify that you meet the legal age requirement before playing. If you are under 18, please do not participate in online pokies or any form of gambling.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Be aware of these warning signs that may indicate problem gambling:
- Chasing losses — trying to win back money you've lost by gambling more
- Hiding or lying about the amount of time and money spent gambling
- Neglecting family, work, or social responsibilities due to gambling
- Gambling with money needed for essentials (rent, bills, food)
- Feeling anxious or irritable when unable to gamble
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts to feel the same excitement
- Failed attempts to cut down or stop gambling
- Borrowing money to fund gambling activity
- Using gambling to escape problems or difficult emotions
If you recognise any of these signs, please reach out for support immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Safer Play Options
Most responsible online casinos offer tools to help you gamble safely:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a cap on the amount you're willing to lose during a session or period
- Reality Checks: Receive notifications at regular intervals reminding you how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Session Limits: Set automatic time limits for your gaming sessions
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling platforms
- Take Breaks: Step away from gaming regularly and engage in other activities
Use these tools proactively to maintain control over your gambling behaviour.
Support & Help Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF) — Free, confidential support for problem gambling
Phone: 0800 664 262 | Website: www.pgf.nz - Gambling Helpline NZ — 24/7 support and counselling
Phone: 0800 006 886
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
Need Help? Reach Out Today
If gambling is causing you distress, affecting your finances, relationships, or mental health, please seek help immediately. There is no shame in reaching out — support services are confidential, free, and staffed by trained professionals who understand problem gambling.
Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation (NZ): 0800 664 262
Recovery is possible. The first step is asking for help.