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. Like any form of entertainment, it carries risks. Please gamble responsibly and within your means.
Remember: the house always has an edge. Only play with money you can afford to lose, and never chase losses.
Age Verification
Online pokies in New Zealand are only available to individuals who are 18 years of age or older. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet this legal requirement before engaging in any gambling activities.
If you are under 18, please do not participate in online gambling. If you are aware of underage gambling, please report it to the relevant authorities.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Be aware of these warning signs in yourself or others:
- Frequently thinking about gambling or past gambling experiences
- Needing to gamble with larger amounts to achieve the same excitement
- Unsuccessful attempts to reduce or control gambling
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Using gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
- Hiding or lying about gambling activities and expenditure
- Neglecting work, school, family, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Jeopardizing relationships, education, or career opportunities
- Experiencing anxiety or irritability when unable to gamble
If you recognise any of these signs, seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Controls
Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you gamble responsibly:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Restrict the maximum amount you are willing to lose during a session
- Time Limits: Set reminders and automatic session timeouts to limit how long you play
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic notifications of your spending and time spent gambling
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling for a set period
Make use of these tools—they are designed to protect you. If a casino does not offer these features, consider using a different provider.
Support Organisations & Help Services
If you are struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available. New Zealand residents can access:
New Zealand:
- Gambling Helpline NZ: A free, confidential service for people affected by gambling problems. Phone: 0800 654 655 | Website: www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
- Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF): Provides support, counselling, and resources. Website: www.pgf.nz
International Support Services:
- Gambling Help Online (Australia): www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- GamCare (United Kingdom): www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (United Kingdom): Self-exclusion scheme - www.gamstop.co.uk
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (USA): www.ncpgambling.org
These organisations offer free, confidential support and can provide counselling, resources, and treatment options.
Need Help?
If you believe you have a problem with gambling, please reach out for help today. There is no shame in seeking support—many people have successfully overcome gambling problems with professional assistance.
Contact the Gambling Helpline NZ on 0800 654 655 (free and confidential) or visit www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
Your wellbeing matters. Help is always available.