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 wager money you can afford to lose.
Remember: the odds always favour the house. If you find yourself viewing gaming as an income source or way to recover losses, it may be time to seek help.
Age Verification
All players must be 18 years of age or older to access and play online pokies in New Zealand. This legal requirement exists to protect young people from the risks of gambling.
If you are under 18, please do not register or attempt to use gaming services. Parents and guardians are encouraged to monitor their children's online activities.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following behaviours in yourself or someone you know, it may indicate problem gambling:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding or being secretive about gambling activities
- Spending more time and money on gaming than intended
- Neglecting family, work, or other responsibilities due to gaming
- Experiencing mood changes (irritability, anxiety) when unable to gamble
- Borrowing money to fund gambling activities
- Lying to friends or family about the extent of gambling
- Feeling unable to stop or control gambling habits
- Gaming to escape problems or relieve stress
If you experience any of these signs, please reach out for support immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Player Protections
Many online gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose during a gaming session
- Reality Checks: Receive regular notifications during gameplay reminding you how long you've been playing
- Session Time Limits: Set automatic session timeouts to prevent extended play
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming platforms
- Account Pause: Take a break from your account for a specified period
Use these tools to stay in control and enjoy gaming responsibly.
Support & Help Organizations
If you or someone you know needs help with problem gambling, the following organisations provide confidential support:
New Zealand
- Gambling Helpline (NZ): Free phone 0800 654 655 (available 24/7) or text 8393
- Problem Gambling Foundation (NZ): www.problemgambling.org.nz
Australia
- Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
United Kingdom
- GamCare: www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (Self-Exclusion Scheme): www.gamstop.co.uk
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council: www.responsiblegambling.org
United States
- National Council on Problem Gambling: www.ncpgambling.org
Germany
- Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA): Gambling addiction information and support
All organisations listed above offer confidential advice, counselling, and support at no cost.
Take Action Today
If you or someone you care about is struggling with problem gambling, please seek help today. Support is available, and recovery is possible.
Don't wait—contact one of the support organisations above now. They're here to help, and all conversations are confidential.
Remember: responsible gaming means gaming remains fun. Play safely, stay in control, and know when to stop.