Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online pokies should only be enjoyed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and there is no guaranteed way to win. Play only with money you can afford to lose, and never gamble more than you planned.
Age Verification
Online gambling in New Zealand is only available to individuals who are 18 years of age or older. If you are under the legal gambling age, please do not participate in online gaming. All licensed operators are required to verify your age before allowing access to gaming platforms.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognize 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
- Gambling with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same excitement
- Lying to family, friends, or professionals about the extent of your gambling
- Neglecting work, study, or family responsibilities due to gambling
- Using gambling as an escape from stress, anxiety, or depression
- Experiencing irritability or mood swings when unable to gamble
- Borrowing money or accumulating debt to fund gambling
- Failed attempts to reduce or stop gambling
- Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online operators provide tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Cap the amount of money you are willing to lose in a given timeframe
- Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders about how long you have been playing and how much you have spent
- Session Time Limits: Set automatic timeouts to limit your gaming sessions
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling platforms
- Account Closure: Request permanent closure of your gaming account
Use these tools proactively to maintain control over your gaming habits.
Support Organizations in New Zealand & Internationally
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, confidential help and support are available:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (Aotearoa New Zealand): Free and confidential support services. Helpline: 0800 664 262 | Website: www.pgf.nz
- Gamblers Anonymous: Peer support meetings across New Zealand. Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz
International Resources
- GamCare (United Kingdom): Free, confidential support and counselling. Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (United Kingdom): National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling. Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
- Gambling Help Online (Australia): Free counselling and support services. Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): Evidence-based information and resources. Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (United States): Helpline and treatment resources. Website: www.ncpgambling.org
If You Need Help
Reach out today. Problem gambling is a treatable condition, and help is available. Speaking with a counsellor is free, confidential, and non-judgmental. The sooner you seek support, the sooner you can regain control of your life.
Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation on 0800 664 262 or visit www.pgf.nz to access resources and support services.