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. While gaming can be fun and exciting, it's important to remember that the house always has an edge, and losses are always possible.

Set a budget you can afford to lose, treat it like any other entertainment expense, and never gamble more than you can comfortably spare.

Age Verification

Online pokies in New Zealand are only available to players aged 18 years and over. This legal requirement protects young people from the risks of problem gambling.

If you are under 18, you must not participate in online pokies or any form of gambling. If you're unsure about your eligibility, please verify your age before playing.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. Be aware of these warning signs:

• Chasing losses — continuing to gamble to recover money you've lost
• Hiding gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
• Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
• Neglecting work, study, family, or social responsibilities
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when not gambling
• Borrowing money to fund gambling
• Using gambling to escape problems or emotional stress
• Failed attempts to cut down or stop gambling
• Gambling with money meant for essential expenses (rent, food, bills)
• Friends or family expressing concern about your gambling habits

If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone else, seek help immediately.

Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gambling Features

Most reputable online gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose in a session or day
• Session Limits: Restrict how long you can play in one sitting
• Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders of how long you've been playing and how much you've wagered
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from your gaming account
• Account Closure: Permanently close your account if needed

Use these tools proactively to manage your gambling responsibly.

Support Organizations — Get Help Now

If you're struggling with problem gambling, you're not alone. Help is available:

New Zealand

• Gambling Helpline NZ: 0800 654 655 (free, confidential, 24/7) | www.gamblinghelpline.org.nz
• Problem Gambling Foundation NZ: www.pgf.nz

International Support

• GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop (UK): www.gamstop.co.uk
• Gambling Help Online (Australia): www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org
• National Council on Problem Gambling (US): www.ncpgambling.org

If You Need Help

Take action today. Contacting a support organization is confidential, free, and the first step toward recovery. Problem gambling is treatable, and support is available.

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, please reach out to the Gambling Helpline NZ on 0800 654 655 or visit one of the support organizations listed above.

Your wellbeing is our priority. Gamble responsibly, or not at all.