Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
Online pokies and casino games should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. They are games of chance with a built-in house edge, meaning the odds always favour the casino. Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose, and never view gambling as a way to earn money or solve financial problems.
Age Verification
In New Zealand, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in gambling activities, including online pokies. We take age verification seriously and do not permit access to gambling services for anyone under the legal age. If you are under 18, please do not attempt to access our services.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may indicate a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
- Hiding or lying about your gambling activity and spending
- Gambling with money meant for essentials (rent, food, bills)
- Neglecting work, study, or family responsibilities due to gambling
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money for the same excitement
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Experiencing relationship or financial strain due to gambling
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online gaming platforms offer tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period
- Loss Limits: Set a cap on the amount you're willing to lose
- Reality Checks: Receive regular notifications reminding you how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Session Limits: Set time restrictions on your gaming sessions
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from accessing gambling services for a set period or indefinitely
- Account Closure: Permanently close your gaming account if you wish to stop
Always use these tools proactively to maintain control of your gambling habits.
Support Organizations & Helplines
If you or someone you know needs help with problem gambling, the following organisations provide free, confidential support:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF) – Free counselling and support
Helpline: 0800 664 262 (toll-free) | Website: www.problemgambling.nz - Gambling Helpline Aotearoa – 24/7 support and information
Phone: 0800 654 655 | Website: www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz - Samaritans NZ – Emotional support for distress
Phone: 1 (800) 726 666 | Website: www.samaritans.org.nz
International Support (if accessing services from abroad)
- 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
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
Problem gambling is a serious issue that affects many people and their families. The good news is that help is available, and recovery is possible. If you feel your gambling is becoming a problem, please don't hesitate to contact one of the support organisations listed above. Speaking to someone is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Remember: You are not alone, and confidential support is available 24/7.