Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online pokies and casino games should be enjoyed as entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While gaming can be fun and exciting, it's important to remember that the house always has a mathematical advantage. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
In New Zealand, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gaming and pokies. We are committed to preventing access by minors. If you are under 18, please do not use our services.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may indicate a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Lying to family, friends, or others about gambling activities
- Gambling with money needed for essentials (rent, bills, food)
- Neglecting work, study, or family responsibilities due to gambling
- Unable to stop or reduce gambling despite wanting to
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when not gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems or relieve stress
- Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts
- Spending increasing amounts of time or money on gambling
- Others expressing concern about your gambling habits
Self-Help Tools & Features
Many online gaming platforms offer tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a limit on how much you're willing to lose in a session
- Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders during gaming sessions about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing gaming platforms
- Session Time Limits: Set automatic logouts after a specified duration
Use these tools proactively to maintain control over your gaming habits.
Support Organisations & Resources
If you're struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available. The following organisations offer confidential support:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (Te Kāhui Wehiwehi): www.pgf.nz — Free, confidential counselling and support services for New Zealanders affected by problem gambling
- Gambling Helpline: 0800 654 655 — Free, 24/7 telephone support
International Resources
- UK - GamCare: www.gamcare.org.uk
- UK - GamStop: www.gamstop.co.uk (National self-exclusion scheme)
- Australia - Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Canada - Responsible Gambling Council: www.responsiblegambling.org
- USA - National Council on Problem Gambling: www.ncpgambling.org
Take Action Today
If you believe you have a problem with gambling, or if someone you care about does, please seek help now. Problem gambling is treatable, and support is available.
Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation on 0800 654 655 or visit www.pgf.nz for free, confidential support.
Remember: asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.