Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
Online pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. They should never be viewed as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The odds are always in favor of the house, and losses are an expected part of gaming. Set a budget you can afford to lose and stick to it.
Age Verification
Online pokies in New Zealand are only available to players aged 18 years and over. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet the legal age requirement in your jurisdiction before participating in any gaming activity.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognize any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek help:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
- Gambling with money needed for essentials like rent, bills, or food
- Hiding your gambling activity or lying about the amount spent
- Spending increasing amounts of time or money on gaming
- Failed attempts to cut back or control gambling
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble or pay off gambling debts
- Neglecting family, work, or other responsibilities
- Using gambling to escape problems or emotional distress
- Gambling to the point of jeopardizing relationships or opportunities
Self-Help Tools
Most responsible gaming operators provide tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a daily, weekly, or monthly limit on how much you can deposit
- Loss Limits: Set a limit on how much you're willing to lose in a session
- Session Time Limits: Automatically log out after a set period of gaming
- Reality Checks: Receive notifications during play to remind you how long you've been gaming and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming platforms
Use these tools proactively to maintain control over your gaming activity.
Support Organizations
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (Aotearoa) – Free, confidential support and resources specific to New Zealand
www.pgf.nz - Gambling Helpline (New Zealand) – Free phone counseling service
Phone: 0800 654 655 (available 24/7)
International Resources
- GamCare (United Kingdom) – www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (United Kingdom Self-Exclusion) – www.gamstop.co.uk
- Gambling Help Online (Australia) – www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) – www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (United States) – www.ncpgambling.org
Need Help?
If you're experiencing difficulties with gambling, please reach out for support today. There is no shame in asking for help. Professional counselors are available to provide confidential assistance at no cost.
Organizations like the Problem Gambling Foundation (Aotearoa) and the Gambling Helpline (0800 654 655) are specifically designed to support New Zealanders. Contact them at any time.
Remember: Problem gambling is treatable, and recovery is possible with the right support.