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 approach it with a responsible mindset and set realistic expectations about outcomes.
Remember: the house always has a mathematical advantage. Only gamble what you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gambling in Aotearoa New Zealand. If you are under the legal age, please do not use online pokie services.
Licensed operators are required to verify your age before allowing access to gaming platforms. If you are underage and have accessed gambling services, please seek support from a trusted adult.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Be aware of these warning signs that may indicate problem gambling:
- Constantly thinking about gambling or past gaming sessions
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts to achieve the same excitement
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to recover money lost
- Hiding gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
- Gambling to escape problems, stress, anxiety, or depression
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Unable to cut back or stop gambling despite wanting to
- Neglecting work, study, relationships, or responsibilities due to gaming
- Experiencing mood swings or irritability when unable to gamble
- Lying about the time or money spent on gambling
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online casinos offer built-in tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit within a specific time period
- Loss Limits: Restrict the amount of money you can lose in a day, week, or month
- Session Time Limits: Automatically log you out after a set period of gameplay
- Reality Checks: Receive reminders about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from accessing gaming platforms for a period you choose
- Account Cooling-Off: Temporarily freeze your account to take a break from gambling
Use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gaming habits.
Support Organisations & Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. The following organisations provide free, confidential support:
New Zealand Resources
- Problem Gambling Foundation Aotearoa (PGFA) – Free counselling and support services across New Zealand
www.pgf.nz - Gamblers Anonymous New Zealand – Peer support meetings and recovery programmes
www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz - 1737 Call or Text – Free call or text support available 24/7 in Aotearoa New Zealand
Call or text 1737 (free, from any phone)
International Resources
- GamCare (United Kingdom) – Information and support for problem gambling
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (United Kingdom) – National self-exclusion scheme
www.gamstop.co.uk - Gambling Help Online (Australia) – Support and counselling services
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) – Education and support resources
www.responsiblegambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling (United States) – Helpline and referral services
www.ncpgambling.org
If You Need Help
Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Problem gambling is a treatable condition, and support is available.
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling:
- Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation Aotearoa for free, confidential counselling
- Call or text 1737 anytime, 24/7
- Speak with a trusted friend, family member, or health professional
- Use the self-exclusion tools available on gaming platforms
Recovery is possible. Reach out today.