Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
Online pokies should only be viewed as a form of entertainment, similar to going to the movies or buying a coffee. It should never be considered as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and losses are a normal part of gaming. Play only with money you can afford to lose, and never gamble with funds needed for essential expenses like rent, food, or bills.
Age Verification
Online gambling in New Zealand is only legal for individuals aged 18 years and over. By accessing online pokies, you confirm that you are of legal age in your jurisdiction. It is your responsibility to ensure compliance with all local laws and regulations.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may indicate a problem with gambling:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Gambling with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same level of excitement
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Becoming preoccupied with gambling or planning the next gambling session
- Gambling to escape negative emotions or problems
- Hiding gambling activities or lying about the extent of gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts
- Risking relationships, employment, or educational opportunities due to gambling
- Experiencing anxiety, irritability, or restlessness when trying to reduce gambling
- Gambling has become a significant financial burden
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online casinos offer built-in tools to help you maintain control of your gambling:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose within a specific timeframe
- Reality Checks: Enable regular reminders about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Session Time Limits: Automatically close your gaming session after a predetermined period
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing your gaming account
- Account Cooling-Off Period: Take a break from gambling for a set period
Take advantage of these features before problems develop. Responsible gaming starts with you.
Support Organisations & Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Please reach out to one of these organisations:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (NZ) – Free and confidential support
Website: www.pgf.nz
Phone: 0800 664 262 (free call) - Gambling Helpline (NZ) – 24/7 support service
Phone: 0800 006 886
International Resources
- GamCare (UK) – Free support for problem gambling
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (UK) – National self-exclusion scheme
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk - Gambling Help Online (Australia) – Free counselling and information
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) – Resources and support
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling (USA) – Help and information
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
Problem gambling is treatable, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you suspect you have a gambling problem, do not wait. Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation (NZ) or Gambling Helpline today. Counselling services are confidential, free, and available 24/7. You deserve support, and help is just a phone call away.
Remember: Your wellbeing matters. Gamble responsibly or not at all.