Responsible Gaming

Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income

Online pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. They are games of chance with a built-in house edge. Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose, and do not view gambling as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. If you find yourself gambling beyond your means, please reach out for support.

Age Verification

You must be at least 18 years of age (or the legal gambling age in your jurisdiction) to participate in online gambling. If you are under the legal age, please do not gamble. Underage gambling can lead to serious harm.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

If you notice any of the following behaviours, it may indicate a gambling problem:

Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
Hiding gambling activities or lying about time and money spent
Gambling with money meant for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
Neglecting work, study, family, or relationships due to gambling
Feeling anxious, irritable, or distressed when not gambling
Needing to gamble with increasing amounts to achieve the same excitement
Failed attempts to reduce or stop gambling
Using gambling to escape problems or cope with negative emotions
Borrowing money or getting into debt to gamble
Experiencing physical symptoms (sleep loss, headaches, stomach problems)

Self-Help Tools

Many online gaming platforms offer responsible gambling tools to help you stay in control:

Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe
Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose
Reality Checks: Receive notifications at regular intervals reminding you how long you've been playing
Session Time Limits: Automatically end your gaming session after a set period
Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling platforms
Account Pause: Take a break from gambling for a set period

Using these tools can help you maintain control and gamble responsibly.

Support Organizations in New Zealand

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, the following organizations provide free, confidential support:

New Zealand

Gambling Helpline (NZ): 0800 654 655 (free phone service, available 24/7)
Website: www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
Problem Gambling Foundation (NZ): 0800 322 422
Website: www.pgf.nz

International Support Organizations

UK - GamCare: www.gamcare.org.uk
Phone: 0808 8020 133
UK - GamStop: www.gamstop.co.uk
National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling
Australia - Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Canada - Responsible Gambling Council: www.responsiblegambling.org
USA - National Council on Problem Gambling: www.ncpgambling.org
Phone: 1-800-522-4700

If You Need Help

If you are experiencing gambling-related problems, please seek help immediately. There is no shame in reaching out for support. Free, confidential resources are available to you:

Gambling Helpline (NZ): 0800 654 655
Available 24/7, 7 days a week

Remember: recovery is possible, and help is available. Contact a support organisation today.