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. Playing should be fun, affordable, and within your means. If you find yourself gambling to make money or to recover losses, it may be time to seek support.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gambling in New Zealand. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to gamble. If you are underage, please do not access gambling websites. Parents and guardians are encouraged to monitor online activity and discuss responsible gaming practices with young people.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, problem gambling may be developing:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
- Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Gambling for longer periods than intended
- Neglecting work, school, family, or social responsibilities
- Borrowing money to fund gambling
- Lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
- Failed attempts to cut down or stop gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
Self-Help Tools & Limits
Most responsible online casinos offer tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a set timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose within a set period
- Reality Checks: Receive reminders at regular intervals during your gaming session
- Session Time Limits: Automatically log out after a set period of play
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from an online casino
Take advantage of these tools to manage your gambling responsibly.
Support Organisations in New Zealand & Globally
If you or someone you know needs help with problem gambling, support is available:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (Aotearoa New Zealand)
Free, confidential support and counselling services
Phone: 0800 664 262 | Website: www.pgf.nz - Gamblers Anonymous (New Zealand)
Support groups and peer assistance
Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz
International Support Services
- Australia: Gambling Help Online — www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- United Kingdom: GamCare — www.gamcare.org.uk | GamStop — www.gamstop.co.uk
- Canada: Responsible Gambling Council — www.responsiblegambling.org
- United States: National Council on Problem Gambling — www.ncpgambling.org
Need Help?
If you think you or a loved one may have a problem with gambling, please reach out for help today. Support is confidential, free, and available 24/7. There is no shame in asking for assistance—taking action is a sign of strength.
Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation in New Zealand on 0800 664 262 or visit their website for more information and resources.