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. Playing should be fun, and you should only gamble with money you can afford to lose. If gaming stops being enjoyable, it's time to seek help.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to use online gaming services in New Zealand. By accessing this website, you confirm that you are of legal age to gamble in your jurisdiction.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, problem gambling may be developing:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to recover money
- Gambling with more money than you originally planned
- Hiding gambling activity or lying about how much you gamble
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Neglecting family, work, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
- Borrowing money to fund gambling activities
- Failed attempts to cut down or stop gambling
- Experiencing financial difficulties due to gambling
- Jeopardising relationships, education, or career opportunities
Self-Help Tools & Controls
Responsible gaming features can help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit within a specific timeframe
- Loss Limits: Define the maximum amount of losses you'll accept before stopping
- Reality Checks: Enable pop-up reminders about how long you've been playing
- Session Time Limits: Automatically log you out after a set period
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming accounts
- Account Cooling-Off Period: Take a break from gambling for a defined period
Use these tools proactively to stay in control of your gaming habits.
Support Organisations & Resources
If you're struggling with gambling, professional help is available. New Zealand and international support services:
New Zealand Resources
- Problem Gambling Foundation – Free counselling and support services across NZ
www.problemgambling.nz - Gamblers Anonymous NZ – Peer support and recovery meetings
www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz
International Resources
- GamCare (UK) – Advice and support for problem gambling
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (UK) – National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling
www.gamstop.co.uk - Gambling Help Online (Australia) – Counselling and resources
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) – Research and support services
www.responsiblegambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling (US) – Helpline and resources
www.ncpgambling.org
Need Help?
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, please reach out for support today. There is no shame in asking for help – professional counsellors are available 24/7 and can assist you in regaining control.
Remember: Gambling should only ever be entertainment. If it's causing you distress, financial hardship, or affecting your relationships, contact the Problem Gambling Foundation or your local support service immediately.