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. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and the outcomes are determined by random number generators. Please gamble only with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years of age to play online pokies in New Zealand. If you are under 18, please do not access gambling websites. Gambling is illegal for minors and can have serious consequences for your future.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs, you may be developing a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
- Gambling with increasing amounts of money to get the same excitement
- Hiding your gambling from family, friends, or partners
- Neglecting work, school, family, or other responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money or using credit to fund gambling
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when trying to cut down or stop gambling
- Lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
- Unsuccessful attempts to reduce or control gambling
- Risking relationships, education, or career opportunities because of gambling
Self-Help Tools & Limits
Most reputable online gaming operators offer responsible gaming tools to help you maintain 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 in a given period
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Time Limits: Set a maximum session duration before you're logged out automatically
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from gambling for a specified period or permanently
- Account Closure: Request permanent closure of your account if you wish to stop gambling entirely
Support Organisations for New Zealand
If you or someone you know needs help with problem gambling, please contact one of these organisations:
Gambling Helpline (New Zealand)
Phone: 0800 654 655
Website: www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
Free, confidential support available 24/7 for problem gambling in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Problem Gambling Foundation (New Zealand)
Phone: 0800 664 262
Website: www.problemgambling.org.nz
Provides counselling, support, and resources for those affected by problem gambling.
Salvation Army – Problem Gambling Services
Website: www.salvationarmy.org.nz
Offers counselling and support services for problem gambling throughout New Zealand.
International Support (if needed)
- Gamblers Anonymous: www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz
- GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (UK): www.gamstop.co.uk
- Gambling Help Online (Australia): www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Seek Help Today
If you believe you have a problem with gambling, please reach out for help immediately. There is no shame in asking for support. The organisations listed above are staffed by trained professionals who understand problem gambling and can provide confidential assistance.
Remember: Recovery is possible, and help is available. Contact the Gambling Helpline on 0800 654 655 anytime, day or night.