Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income

Online pokies should be enjoyed as entertainment only, similar to going to the cinema or playing sports. They should never be viewed as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and outcomes are determined by random chance. Please gamble responsibly and within your means.

Age Verification

You must be 18 years of age or older to access online pokies in New Zealand. This is a legal requirement. If you are under 18, please do not use gambling services. Parents and caregivers should monitor young people's online activities and discuss the risks of gambling.

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 recover money lost
• Hiding gambling activities from family, friends, or partners
• Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
• Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
• Lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
• Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts
• Neglecting work, study, family, or social responsibilities
• Unsuccessful attempts to cut down or stop gambling
• Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions

If you've identified with any of these signs, please seek help immediately.

Self-Help Tools & Limits

Most reputable online pokies providers offer tools to help you gamble responsibly:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit in a day, week, or month
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose during a session
• Time Limits: Set reminders to take breaks from gambling
• Reality Checks: Regular pop-up notifications showing your time spent and money wagered
• Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from gambling services for a set period
• Account Closure: Permanently close your gaming account

Use these tools proactively to maintain control over your gambling.

Support Organizations in New Zealand & Beyond

If you're struggling with gambling, these organisations provide confidential support:

New Zealand

• Problem Gambling Foundation (Aotearoa) — Free counselling and support services
  Phone: 0800 664 262 | Website: www.pgf.nz
• Gamblers Anonymous (New Zealand) — Peer support meetings
  Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz

International Support

• Australia: Gambling Help Online — www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• United Kingdom: GamCare — www.gamcare.org.uk
• United Kingdom: GamStop (Self-Exclusion Register) — www.gamstop.co.uk
• Canada: Responsible Gambling Council — www.responsiblegambling.org
• United States: National Council on Problem Gambling — www.ncpgambling.org

If You Need Help

Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, please reach out today. Support is available 24/7, and all conversations are confidential.

Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation (Aotearoa) on 0800 664 262 or visit www.pgf.nz for free, confidential counselling.

Remember: You are not alone, and help is available.