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. Please gamble responsibly and within your means. Remember that the house always has an edge, and there are no guaranteed ways to win.
Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years of age to gamble online in New Zealand. If you are under 18, please do not access online pokies or gambling services. We take age verification seriously and reserve the right to request proof of age at any time.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of these 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
- Hiding gambling activity or lying about how much time or money you spend gambling
- Gambling with money needed for essential expenses like rent, bills, or food
- Experiencing anxiety, stress, or mood changes related to gambling
- Neglecting family, work, or other responsibilities due to gambling
- Feeling unable to stop gambling or control the amount you spend
- Borrowing money or using credit to fund gambling
- Gambling to escape problems or difficult emotions
- Failed attempts to reduce or quit gambling
- Friends or family expressing concern about your gambling habits
Self-Help Tools & Player Protection
Most reputable online pokies operators offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Restrict the maximum amount you're willing to lose during a gaming session
- Reality Checks: Receive reminders during gameplay about how long you've been playing and how much you've wagered
- Time-Out/Cool-Off Period: Take a break from gambling for a set period (hours, days, or weeks)
- Self-Exclusion: Permanently or temporarily close your account and exclude yourself from accessing gambling services
If your chosen operator doesn't offer these tools, consider switching to one that does.
Support Organisations & Resources
If you or someone you know needs help with problem gambling, these organisations offer free, confidential support:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation – Free helpline and support services for New Zealand residents
Phone: 0800 664 262 (free call)
Website: www.pgf.nz - Gambling Helpline – Confidential support and counselling
Phone: 0800 006 886 (free call)
Website: www.gambleaware.co.nz
Australia
- Gambling Help Online
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
United Kingdom
- GamCare – Free support, information, and counselling
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop – National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
United States
- National Council on Problem Gambling
Helpline: 1-800-522-4700 (confidential)
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
If You Need Help
Reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you're struggling with gambling, please contact one of the organisations above. Professional counsellors and support workers are available to help you 24/7, and all services are confidential and free of charge.
Your wellbeing is important. Don't hesitate to ask for help.