Responsible Gaming

Introduction

Online pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. Gambling is not a way to make money or solve financial problems. Play responsibly and only with money you can afford to lose. Set realistic expectations and remember that the house always has an edge.

Age Verification

You must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gambling in New Zealand. If you are under the legal age, please do not use this service. We are committed to preventing underage gambling.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

If you experience any of the following, you may be developing a gambling problem:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
• Hiding your gambling activities from family and friends
• Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, food, bills)
• Spending more time or money on gambling than planned
• Feeling anxious or irritable when you try to stop or reduce gambling
• Using gambling to escape problems or relieve stress
• Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts
• Neglecting work, study, or relationships due to gambling
• Experiencing mood swings related to gambling wins and losses
• Feeling a need to gamble with larger amounts for the same excitement

Self-Help Tools

Most online gaming platforms offer tools to help you manage your gambling responsibly:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit in a given time period
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose in a session or timeframe
• Reality Checks: Enable pop-up reminders to check how long you've been playing
• Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from a platform for a set period or permanently
• Session Limits: Set time limits for your gambling sessions

Use these tools proactively to maintain control and enjoy gambling safely.

Support Organizations in New Zealand and Beyond

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available:

New Zealand

• Problem Gambling Foundation (Aotearoa New Zealand): Free, confidential support and counselling services. Visit their website or call for assistance.
• Gambling Helpline: Free, anonymous, and confidential service available 24/7 for those affected by gambling harm

International Support Services

• GamCare (United Kingdom): www.gamcare.org.uk – Support and information for problem gamblers
• GamStop (United Kingdom): www.gamstop.co.uk – National self-exclusion scheme
• Gambling Help Online (Australia): www.gamblinghelponline.org.au – Free counselling and support
• Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org – Resources and support
• National Council on Problem Gambling (United States): www.ncpgambling.org – Help and referral services

Call to Action

If you think you may have a gambling problem, please seek help immediately. There is no shame in reaching out. Professional support is available and effective. Contact a support organisation listed above or speak with a healthcare provider. Your wellbeing is important.

Gambling should be fun. If it's causing you stress or harm, it's time to get help.