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 remember that the odds always favour the house. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and set strict limits on how much time and money you spend.

Age Verification

You must be 18 years of age or older to access online pokies in New Zealand. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to gamble. If you are under the legal age, please do not proceed. If you suspect someone underage is gambling, report it to the relevant authorities.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. Watch for these warning signs in yourself or others:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
• Hiding gambling activities or lying about the amount of time and money spent
• Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
• Borrowing money to gamble or to pay gambling debts
• Neglecting family, work, or social responsibilities due to gambling
• Feeling anxious or irritable when trying to cut back or stop gambling
• Gambling for longer periods or with larger amounts than intended
• Constantly thinking about gambling or planning the next session
• Using gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or depression
• Failed attempts to reduce or stop gambling

Self-Help Tools & Features

Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you stay in control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount of losses you're willing to accept
• Time Limits: Set reminders or automatic logout after a certain period of play
• Reality Checks: Regular pop-up notifications to remind you how long you've been playing
• Self-Exclusion: Exclude yourself from a casino for a set period, preventing access to your account

Use these tools proactively to maintain control over your gambling activities.

Support & Help Services

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, free and confidential support is available:

New Zealand

• Gambling Helpline NZ: 0800 654 655 (Free, 24/7) — www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
• Problem Gambling Foundation: www.pgf.nz

International Support (if applicable)

• United Kingdom: GamCare — www.gamcare.org.uk | GamStop — www.gamstop.co.uk
• Australia: Gambling Help Online — www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• Canada: Responsible Gambling Council — www.responsiblegambling.org
• United States: National Council on Problem Gambling — www.ncpgambling.org

Get Help Today

If you're experiencing problems with gambling, please reach out for help immediately. There is no shame in seeking support. Trained counsellors at the Gambling Helpline NZ are available 24/7 and can provide confidential advice, support, and treatment options.

Call 0800 654 655 or visit www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz

Remember: gambling should be fun. If it's not, it's time to seek help.