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 responsibly and within your means.
Remember: the house always has an edge, and outcomes are determined by random chance. Set a budget you can afford to lose and stick to it.
Age Verification
Online pokies in New Zealand are only available to players aged 18 years and older. If you are under 18, you must not participate in online gambling.
By using this website, you confirm that you are at least 18 years of age and legally permitted to gamble in New Zealand.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Do any of the following apply to you? If so, you may be developing a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to recover money you've lost
- Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, food, bills)
- Hiding your gambling activities from family, friends, or partners
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Lying about how much time or money you've spent gambling
- Neglecting work, study, or family responsibilities due to gambling
- Repeatedly trying to cut down or stop gambling without success
- Borrowing money to fund gambling
- Gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
- Friends or family expressing concern about your gambling habits
If you've recognised any of these signs, please reach out for help—support is available.
Self-Help Tools & Safer Gaming Options
Many online gaming platforms offer tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period
- Loss Limits: Cap the amount of money you're willing to lose
- Reality Checks: Receive pop-up reminders of how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Time-Out/Cool-Off Period: Take a mandatory break from gaming for days or weeks
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from all gambling activities for a set period (typically 6 months to several years)
Talk to your gaming provider about implementing these tools on your account today.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you're struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available. The following organizations provide free, confidential support:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (Aotearoa) – Free helpline and counselling services
www.problemgambling.nz - Gambling Helpline NZ – 0800 654 655 (free phone and text service)
Available 24/7 for confidential support
International Resources
- GamCare (United Kingdom) – www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (United Kingdom) – National self-exclusion scheme – www.gamstop.co.uk
- Gambling Help Online (Australia) – www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) – www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (United States) – www.ncpgambling.org
Need Help?
If you think you may have a gambling problem, please seek help today. There is no shame in asking for support—trained professionals are available to help you regain control.
Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation or call the Gambling Helpline NZ on 0800 654 655 for free, confidential advice and support services.
Your wellbeing is important. Help is just a phone call away.