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 with realistic expectations and a responsible mindset. Remember that the odds always favour the house, and you should only spend what you can afford to lose.

Age Verification

Online pokies in New Zealand are strictly for players aged 18 years and over. If you are under the legal age of gambling in your jurisdiction, you must not participate in any online gaming activities. Age verification is a legal requirement designed to protect young people from the potential harms of gambling.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone else, it may be time to seek help:

• Chasing losses by gambling more money to recover what you've lost
• Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
• Hiding your gambling activities or lying about the amount you're gambling
• Neglecting work, study, family, or social responsibilities due to gambling
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
• Borrowing money or using credit to fund gambling
• Experiencing relationship conflicts because of your gambling
• Feeling unable to control or stop your gambling
• Using gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or depression
• Experiencing financial difficulties due to gambling

Self-Help Tools & Features

Most reputable online gaming operators provide tools to help you maintain control over your gambling:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose in a given period
• Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders during your gaming session about how long and how much you've been playing
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from all gaming sites, preventing access to your account
• Session Limits: Set time limits for your gaming sessions
• Cool-off Periods: Take a break from gambling for a specified period

Use these tools proactively to maintain control and ensure gaming remains enjoyable and within your means.

Support Organizations

If you're struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available. The following organisations provide free, confidential support:

New Zealand

• Problem Gambling Foundation NZ: www.problemgambling.nz — Free counselling and support services
• Gambling Helpline NZ: 0800 654 655 — 24/7 free phone support

International Organizations

• GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk — Free support and information
• GamStop (UK): www.gamstop.co.uk — National self-exclusion scheme
• Gambling Help Online (Australia): www.gamblinghelponline.org.au — Free counselling and resources
• Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org — Information and support
• National Council on Problem Gambling (USA): www.ncpgambling.org — Help and treatment resources

If You Need Help, Reach Out Today

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, don't suffer in silence. Help is available, and seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Contact the Gambling Helpline NZ on 0800 654 655 or visit the Problem Gambling Foundation NZ for confidential assistance.

Remember: gambling should always be fun and within your means. If it stops being enjoyable, it's time to seek help.