Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment

Online pokies and casino games should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to make money or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and there is no guaranteed way to win. Please gamble responsibly and only spend what you can afford to lose.

Age Verification

In New Zealand, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in gambling activities. This is a legal requirement. If you are under 18, please do not access online pokies or casino games.

Operators are required to verify your age before allowing you to play. If you believe a minor has accessed gambling services, please report this immediately to the relevant operator or Department of Internal Affairs (DIA).

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. Be aware of these warning signs:

• Chasing losses by gambling more money to try to recover what you've lost
• Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, food, bills, medications)
• Hiding your gambling activities or lying about how much you gamble
• Experiencing anxiety, irritability, or mood swings when not gambling
• Spending increasing amounts of time and money on gambling
• Being unable to stop or cut back on gambling despite wanting to
• Neglecting work, study, family, or other important relationships
• Borrowing money to fund gambling activities
• Experiencing financial difficulties as a result of gambling
• Feeling a need to gamble with increasing amounts to achieve the same excitement

If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, please seek help immediately.

Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features

Most reputable online operators offer built-in tools to help you stay in control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose
• Time Limits: Set automatic session time limits to remind you to take breaks
• Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
• Self-Exclusion: Take a complete break from gambling for a set period or indefinitely
• Account Closure: Permanently close your account if needed

Use these tools proactively to maintain control over your gambling activities.

Support Organizations in New Zealand & Beyond

If you're struggling with gambling, professional help is available. The following organizations provide free, confidential support:

New Zealand

• Gambling Helpline (NZ): 0800 654 655 — Free, confidential support available 24/7
• Gamblers Anonymous (NZ): Support groups across New Zealand — www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz
• Problem Gambling Foundation: www.pgf.nz

International Support

• UK - GamCare: www.gamcare.org.uk
• UK - GamStop: www.gamstop.co.uk (National self-exclusion scheme)
• Australia - Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• Canada - Responsible Gambling Council: www.responsiblegambling.org
• USA - National Council on Problem Gambling: www.ncpgambling.org

If You Need Help, Please Reach Out

There is no shame in asking for help. Problem gambling is treatable, and support is available. If you or someone you care about is struggling with gambling, please contact one of the organizations listed above today.

Remember: Gambling should be fun. If it stops being fun, it's time to seek help.