Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income

Online pokies and casino games should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. They are games of chance with a built-in house advantage, and should never be considered as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Play only with money you can afford to lose, and always set limits before you start.

Age Verification

You must be 18 years or older to gamble online in New Zealand. This is a legal requirement. If you are under 18, we encourage you to seek support from a trusted adult or contact one of the support organizations listed below.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognize any of the following warning signs in yourself or someone you know, please seek help immediately:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
• Gambling with money intended for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
• Hiding or lying about your gambling activities
• Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
• Neglecting work, school, family, or social relationships due to gambling
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
• Unsuccessfully attempting to cut down or control gambling
• Borrowing money to fund gambling
• Experiencing relationship or financial problems caused by gambling
• Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions

Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features

Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you stay in control:

• 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 in a given period
• Reality Checks: Receive reminders of how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling sites
• Session Time Limits: Set automatic logout after a specified period
• Account Closure: Close your account if you need a break from gambling

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

Support Organizations in New Zealand & Internationally

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Please reach out to one of these organizations:

New Zealand Support Services

• Gambling Helpline (New Zealand): 0800 654 655 — Free, confidential support 24/7
• Problem Gambling Foundation: www.pgf.nz — Resources and counselling services

International Support Services

• GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk — Counselling and support services
• GamStop (UK): www.gamstop.co.uk — National self-exclusion scheme
• Gambling Help Online (Australia): www.gamblinghelponline.org.au — Counselling and support
• Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org — Information and resources
• National Council on Problem Gambling (US): www.ncpgambling.org — 1-800-GAMBLER helpline

If You Need Help, Reach Out Today

Seeking help for a gambling problem is a sign of strength, not weakness. Professional support services are confidential, non-judgmental, and available to help you regain control. Whether you're experiencing early warning signs or are in crisis, please don't hesitate to contact the Gambling Helpline on 0800 654 655 or reach out to one of the organizations listed above.

Your wellbeing matters. Help is available.