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. While gaming can be fun and exciting, it's important to approach it responsibly and within your means.

Remember: the house always has an edge. Only gamble what you can afford to lose, and never chase losses.

Age Verification

In New Zealand, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gaming and pokie play. This is a legal requirement.

If you are under 18, please do not access or use online gaming services. If you are aware of a minor accessing gaming sites, please report it to the Department of Internal Affairs.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Are you experiencing any of the following? If so, you may be developing a gambling problem:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to try to recover money lost
• Gambling with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same level of excitement
• Feeling irritable or anxious when trying to reduce or stop gambling
• Hiding gambling activities or lying about how much you gamble
• Neglecting family, work, school, or other important responsibilities
• Using gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
• Borrowing money or getting into debt to fund gambling
• Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
• Jeopardizing relationships, jobs, or educational opportunities
• Experiencing financial difficulties due to gambling

If you recognize any of these signs in yourself or someone else, help is available.

Self-Help Tools & Responsible Limits

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

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a chosen timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Set a limit on the amount of money you're willing to lose in a session or over time
• Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
• Session Limits: Set a maximum duration for your gaming sessions
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming sites
• Account Closure: Close your account if you need to stop gambling entirely

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

Support Organizations & Help Services

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, professional support is available:

New Zealand Resources

• Problem Gambling Foundation – Free, confidential counselling and support services across New Zealand.
  www.problemgambling.nz | Phone: 0800 664 262
• Gamblers Anonymous – Peer support meetings and a 12-step programme for problem gambling.
  www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz
• Department of Internal Affairs – Gambling Commission – Regulatory body and player protection information.
  www.dia.govt.nz/gambling

International Resources

• GamCare (UK) – Support and information for problem gambling.
  www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop (UK) – National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling.
  www.gamstop.co.uk
• Gambling Help Online (Australia) – Free, confidential counselling and support.
  www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) – Evidence-based resources and support.
  www.responsiblegambling.org
• National Council on Problem Gambling (USA) – Helpline and treatment referrals.
  www.ncpgambling.org

If You Need Help

Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you're concerned about your gambling habits or those of someone you care about, reach out to one of the organisations listed above. They provide confidential, judgment-free support to help you regain control.

You can also speak to your doctor, a counsellor, or trusted family member. Help is available 24/7.

Remember: Problem gambling is treatable, and recovery is possible with the right support.