Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Fun, Not Financial
Online pokies should be enjoyed as entertainment only. They are games of chance with built-in house advantages. Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose, and remember that no strategy can guarantee winnings. If you find yourself viewing gambling as a way to earn money or solve financial problems, it's time to seek support.
Age Verification
In New Zealand, you must be 18 years of age or older to gamble legally on online pokies. We take age verification seriously and encourage all operators to verify player age before accepting registrations. If you are under 18, please do not participate in online gambling.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Do you recognize any of these warning signs in your own behaviour?
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
- Gambling with larger amounts of money than you intended
- Hiding your gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or guilty about your gambling
- Using gambling to escape stress, worry, or emotional problems
- Neglecting work, study, family, or social responsibilities
- Borrowing money or getting into debt to fund gambling
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Losing interest in hobbies and activities you once enjoyed
- Experiencing relationship problems due to your gambling
If you identify with any of these signs, help is available.
Self-Help Tools & Controls
Most reputable online poker providers offer the following responsible gaming tools:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose before stopping play
- Reality Checks: Receive regular pop-up reminders of how long you've been playing and how much you've wagered
- Time-Out/Cool-Off Period: Temporarily suspend your account for a set period (hours, days, or weeks)
- Self-Exclusion: Permanently or temporarily exclude yourself from gambling platforms
Use these tools proactively to maintain control over your gambling behaviour.
Support Organizations in New Zealand & Internationally
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF)
Free, confidential support for problem gambling in New Zealand
www.problemgambling.nz
Helpline: 0800 664 262 (free call) - Gamblers Anonymous New Zealand
Support groups and peer assistance
www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz
International Support Resources
- GamCare (United Kingdom)
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (United Kingdom)
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
If You Need Help
Problem gambling is a real issue that affects individuals and families. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you believe you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please reach out to one of the support organizations listed above. They offer free, confidential advice and can help you regain control.
Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation today: 0800 664 262