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. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and there is no strategy that can guarantee wins. Play only with money you can afford to lose, and set strict limits before you start.

Age Verification

You must be at least 18 years of age to play online pokies in New Zealand. Online gambling operators are required by law to verify your age and identity before allowing you to play. If you are under 18, please do not attempt to register or play.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

If you recognise any of the following signs, you may be developing a gambling problem:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to try to recover money lost
• Gambling with money needed for essentials (rent, food, bills)
• Hiding your gambling activity or lying about how much you gamble
• Unable to stop or control your gambling
• Neglecting family, friends, work, or study due to gambling
• Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when not gambling
• Using gambling to escape problems or difficult feelings
• Spending increasing amounts of time and money on gambling

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

Self-Help Tools & Safer Gambling Features

Most reputable online pokies operators in New Zealand offer these responsible gambling tools:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit in a day, week, or month
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose
• Time Limits: Set automatic session time limits
• Reality Checks: Enable pop-up reminders showing how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently block yourself from accessing your account
• Account Closure: Close your account if you need a complete break from gambling

Use these tools proactively to maintain control over your gambling.

Get Help — Support Organizations for New Zealand

New Zealand Services:

• Problem Gambling Foundation (Aotearoa New Zealand)
  Free, confidential support and counselling
  www.pgf.nz
  Phone: 0800 664 262 (free call)
• Gambling Helpline NZ
  24/7 support line
  Phone: 0800 654 655
• Samaritans Aotearoa New Zealand
  Emotional support and crisis assistance
  www.samaritans.org.nz
  Phone: 1800 221 4444

International Resources:

• GamCare (UK)
  www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop (UK Self-Exclusion Scheme)
  www.gamstop.co.uk
• Gambling Help Online (Australia)
  www.gamblinghelponline.org.au

If You Need Help

Problem gambling is a serious issue, but help is available. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, please reach out to one of the support organisations listed above. These services are free, confidential, and non-judgmental.

Don't gamble alone. Seek help today.