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 gaming can be fun and exciting, it's important to approach it with realistic expectations and maintain control over your gaming habits.
Remember: the house always has a mathematical advantage. Play only with money you can afford to lose, and never gamble with money intended for essential expenses like rent, bills, or groceries.
Age Verification
Online pokies in New Zealand are strictly for players aged 18 years and over. By accessing gaming platforms, you confirm that you are of legal age to gamble in your jurisdiction.
If you are under 18, please do not participate in any form of gambling. Parents and guardians are encouraged to monitor and restrict access to gaming websites.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, problem gambling may be developing:
- Spending more time or money on gaming than intended
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to recover money
- Hiding gambling activity or lying about the amount spent
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Neglecting family, work, or personal responsibilities due to gaming
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Failed attempts to reduce or stop gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
- Risking relationships, jobs, or educational opportunities
- Experiencing financial difficulties as a result of gambling
If you recognise these signs, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Restrict the total amount of money you're willing to lose
- Session Time Limits: Set automatic reminders or auto-logout after a certain period of play
- Reality Checks: Enable pop-up notifications at regular intervals to remind you of time and money spent
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily ban yourself from accessing gaming platforms for a set period (days, weeks, months, or permanently)
- Account Closure: Permanently close your gaming account if you wish to stop entirely
Use these tools proactively. Taking control now is easier than dealing with problems later.
Support & Help Resources
If you're struggling with gambling, professional support is available. The following organisations provide free, confidential help:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (Aotearoa New Zealand)
Free helpline: 0800 664 262
Website: www.problemgambling.nz
Confidential support and counselling available 24/7 - Gambling Helpline
Phone: 0800 654 655
Email support available for those who prefer to write
International Resources
- Australia - Gambling Help Online
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au - UK - GamCare
www.gamcare.org.uk - UK - GamStop (National Self-Exclusion Scheme)
www.gamstop.co.uk - Canada - Responsible Gambling Council
www.responsiblegambling.org - USA - National Council on Problem Gambling
www.ncpgambling.org
Reaching out for help is free, confidential, and the first step towards recovery.
If You Need Help
Problem gambling affects not only you but also your family, friends, and finances. If you're concerned about your gaming habits, please contact one of the support organisations listed above today.
Recovery is possible, and help is available. Don't suffer in silence—speak to someone you trust or call a helpline. Your wellbeing is more important than any game.
Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation (NZ) now: 0800 664 262