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 playing can be fun, it's important to remember that the odds always favour the house. Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose.
Age Verification
Online pokies in New Zealand are strictly for players aged 18 years and over. It is illegal for anyone under this age to participate in gambling activities. By accessing online pokies, you confirm that you are at least 18 years old and meet all legal requirements to gamble in New Zealand.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may indicate problem gambling:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding gambling activity from family or friends
- Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
- Feeling anxious or irritable when trying to cut down or stop
- Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
- Borrowing money or going into debt to finance gambling
- Neglecting work, school, family, or hobbies due to gambling
- Failed attempts to control or reduce gambling
- Lying to others about the extent of gambling involvement
- Experiencing relationship problems because of gambling
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online pokies operators offer tools to help you gamble responsibly:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period
- Loss Limits: Set a limit on the amount you can lose during a gaming session or time period
- Session Time Limits: Set reminders to take breaks or automatically end your gaming session
- Reality Checks: Receive pop-up notifications during play to check your spending and time
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing your account
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if you wish to stop gambling entirely
Use these tools proactively to maintain control over your gaming habits.
Support & Help Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. New Zealand has dedicated support services:
New Zealand Services
- Problem Gambling Foundation (Te Hiranga Hauora): Free, confidential support and counselling. Call 0800 664 262 or visit www.pgf.nz
- Gambling Helpline: Free phone and email support available 24/7. Call 0800 654 655
International Resources
- Australia: Gambling Help Online — www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- UK: GamCare — www.gamcare.org.uk
- UK: GamStop (National Self-Exclusion Scheme) — www.gamstop.co.uk
- Canada: Responsible Gambling Council — www.responsiblegambling.org
- USA: National Council on Problem Gambling — www.ncpgambling.org
If You Need Help
Problem gambling is a serious issue, but recovery is possible. If you think you have a gambling problem, please reach out for support today. Whether you're in New Zealand or elsewhere, confidential help is available from the organisations listed above. There's no shame in asking for help — taking action is a sign of strength.
Remember: You are not alone. Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation on 0800 664 262 or visit www.pgf.nz for immediate support.