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 approach gambling responsibly and with realistic expectations about the odds.
Remember: The house always has a mathematical advantage. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gambling in New Zealand. If you are under 18, please do not use our services. We take age verification seriously and reserve the right to verify your identity at any time.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you experience any of the following, you may be developing a gambling problem:
- Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to win back money you've lost
- Hiding your gambling activity from friends or family
- Feeling anxious or irritable when trying to reduce or stop gambling
- Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, depression, or other problems
- Neglecting work, study, or family responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts
- Lying about the extent of your gambling
- Losing interest in other hobbies or activities
- Experiencing financial difficulties because of gambling
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself, please seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Limits
Many online gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose
- Reality Checks: Receive notifications at regular intervals reminding you how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Time Limits: Restrict how long you can play in a single session
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling platforms
Take advantage of these tools to keep your gambling enjoyable and within your control.
Support Organisations in New Zealand & Globally
If you're struggling with gambling, help is available. Contact one of these organisations:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (NZ) – Free confidential support
Phone: 0800 664 262 | Website: www.pgf.nz - Gamblers Anonymous (NZ) – Support meetings and peer assistance
Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz
International Support
- GamCare (UK) – Free support service
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (UK) – National self-exclusion scheme
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk - Gambling Help Online (Australia) – Counselling and support
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) – Research and resources
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling (USA) – Helpline and support
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
If You Need Help
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, please reach out for support today. There is no shame in seeking help, and numerous organisations are ready to assist you confidentially.
Contacting the Problem Gambling Foundation (NZ) on 0800 664 262 is free and confidential.
Your wellbeing is important. Seek help early—it makes a real difference.