Responsible Gaming

Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income

Online pokies should only be played as a form of entertainment, similar to going to the movies or playing sports. Never view gambling as a way to make money or solve financial problems. Set a budget you can afford to lose, play for fun, and always gamble within your means.

Age Verification

You must be at least 18 years old to gamble in Aotearoa New Zealand. If you are under 18, please do not participate in any gambling activities. Online casinos and pokie sites are required to verify your age and identity before allowing you to play.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Be aware of these common warning signs that gambling may be becoming a problem:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to try to recover money lost
• Hiding your gambling activities or lying about the amount spent
• Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
• Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
• Neglecting family, friends, work, or other responsibilities due to gambling
• Borrowing money to gamble or pay off gambling debts
• Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
• Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
• Experiencing relationship conflicts because of gambling habits

If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, reach out for help immediately.

Self-Help Tools & Safety Features

Most responsible online casinos 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: Restrict the maximum amount you can lose in a given period
• Time Limits: Set automatic session time limits to prevent extended gambling sessions
• Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders showing your playing time and money spent
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from a casino or multiple sites
• Account Restrictions: Reduce bet limits, disable bonuses, or freeze your account

Use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gambling habits.

Support Organisations in Aotearoa New Zealand

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, help is available:

New Zealand Services:

• Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF)
  Free and confidential support for problem gambling
  Phone: 0800 664 262
  Website: www.problemgambling.nz
• Gambling Helpline (Ngā Kaupapa Āwhina)
  24/7 confidential counselling and support
  Phone: 0800 006 886
  Text: 8393
• Samaritans Aotearoa New Zealand
  Emotional support for people in distress
  Phone: 1800 726 666 (available 24/7)

International Resources:

• Gambling Help Online (Australia)
  www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• GamCare (United Kingdom)
  www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop (United Kingdom)
  www.gamstop.co.uk

If You Need Help, Reach Out Today

Problem gambling is a real issue, but it is treatable. If you or someone you care about is struggling with gambling habits, please seek help immediately. There is no shame in asking for support—trained counsellors are ready to assist you confidentially.

Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation on 0800 664 262 or the Gambling Helpline on 0800 006 886.

This responsible gaming information is provided to promote safe and enjoyable gambling. Always gamble responsibly and within your means. If you have concerns about your gambling habits, seek professional help immediately.