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 guaranteed way to win. Please play responsibly and within your means.

Age Verification

You must be 18 years of age or older to play online pokies in New Zealand. If you are under the legal gambling age, please do not participate. Underage gambling is illegal and can cause serious harm.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone else, problem gambling may be an issue:

• Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
• Chasing losses by gambling more to try to recover money
• Hiding gambling activities from family, friends, or partners
• Gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
• Borrowing money or going into debt to gamble
• Neglecting work, school, or family responsibilities due to gambling
• Experiencing mood swings or irritability when unable to gamble
• Unsuccessful attempts to reduce or stop gambling
• Using gambling as a way to solve financial problems
• Feeling anxious or depressed when not gambling

Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features

Many online gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Restrict the amount you can lose during a set timeframe
• Reality Checks: Receive notifications during your gaming session reminding you how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing gaming platforms
• Session Time Limits: Set automatic log-out times to limit extended play
• Cool-Off Periods: Take a mandatory break from gambling for a set duration

Use these tools to stay in control of your gaming habits.

Support Organisations & Resources

If you need help, support is available. The following organisations provide free, confidential assistance:

New Zealand

• Gamblers Anonymous Aotearoa New Zealand – Support meetings and resources for problem gambling
• Problem Gambling Foundation – Free counselling and support services across New Zealand
• Samaritans Aotearoa New Zealand – 24/7 emotional support (0800 726 666)

International 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

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, please seek help today. There is no shame in reaching out. Support services are confidential, free, and available to help you regain control.

Remember: Gambling should be fun and entertaining. If it stops being enjoyable or is causing harm, it's time to take action.