Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While gaming can be fun and exciting, it's important to approach it responsibly and understand the risks involved.
Remember: The house always has an edge. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and never chase your losses.
Age Verification
Online pokies in New Zealand are only available to players aged 18 years and older. It is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to gamble online.
All gaming sites have a legal responsibility to verify the age of their players before allowing access to gaming services.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Be aware of these common warning signs that gambling may be becoming a problem:
- Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to win back money
- Feeling anxious or irritable when trying to cut down or stop
- Hiding your gambling activities from family or friends
- Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts
- Neglecting work, education, or personal relationships due to gambling
- Using gambling as a way to escape stress, anxiety, or other problems
- Lying to others about the extent of your gambling
- Experiencing financial difficulties because of gambling
- Feeling that you've lost control of your gambling
If you recognize any of these signs in your own behaviour, it's important to seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online gaming sites offer tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit in a day, week, or month
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose during a gaming session
- Betting Limits: Restrict the maximum amount you can bet on individual games
- Reality Checks: Enable pop-up reminders to check how long you've been playing
- Time-Out: Take a break from gaming for a specified period without closing your account
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from gaming sites for an extended period
Use these tools to help maintain control of your gaming and ensure it remains a form of entertainment.
Support Organizations in New Zealand
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available:
New Zealand
- Gambling Helpline — Free, confidential support
0800 654 655 (24/7)
www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz - Problem Gambling Foundation — Information and resources
www.problemgambling.nz
International Support Resources
- Australia: Gambling Help Online — www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- United Kingdom: GamCare — www.gamcare.org.uk
- United Kingdom: 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
Problem gambling is treatable. If you're concerned about your gaming habits or those of someone you care about, please reach out for support:
- Contact the Gambling Helpline on 0800 654 655 (free, confidential, 24/7)
- Visit the Problem Gambling Foundation website for resources and information
- Speak to a trusted friend, family member, or healthcare provider
- Use the self-exclusion tools available on gaming sites
Recovery is possible. Help is available. Reach out today.