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 odds are always in favor of the casino, and there is no guaranteed way to win. Please gamble responsibly and only with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
Online gambling in New Zealand is available only to individuals who are 18 years of age or older. By accessing online pokies, you confirm that you meet this legal age requirement. It is your responsibility to comply with all applicable laws and regulations in your jurisdiction.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you experience any of the following, you may be developing a gambling problem. Please seek help immediately:
- Chasing losses by gambling more money to recover what you've lost
- Gambling with money intended for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
- Hiding gambling activities or lying to family and friends about the time or money spent
- Feeling the need to gamble with increasing amounts to achieve the same level of excitement
- Unsuccessful attempts to reduce or control gambling
- Experiencing anxiety, irritability, or restlessness when trying to stop gambling
- Using gambling as an escape from problems or to relieve negative emotions
- Borrowing money or accumulating debt to fund gambling
- Neglecting work, school, or family responsibilities due to gambling
- Jeopardizing relationships or job opportunities because of gambling
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control of your gambling:
- 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 in a specified period
- Reality Checks: Request regular reminders of how long you have been playing and how much you have spent
- Session Limits: Automatically log you out after a set period of time
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing online gambling platforms
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if you wish to stop gambling entirely
Take advantage of these tools to help maintain control and gamble within your means.
Support Organizations in New Zealand & Internationally
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available:
New Zealand
- Gambling Helpline (New Zealand): 0800 654 655 (free, confidential, 24/7) — www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
- Problem Gambling Foundation: www.pgf.nz
International Support
- Australia: Gambling Help Online — www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- United Kingdom: GamCare — www.gamcare.org.uk | 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 believe you have a problem with gambling, please reach out for support immediately. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Professional counselors and support services are available to assist you in overcoming problem gambling. You are not alone, and recovery is possible.
Contact the Gambling Helpline (NZ): 0800 654 655 for free, confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.