Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
Online pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. They are games of chance with no guaranteed way to earn money. Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose, and always remember that the house has a mathematical advantage. Gambling should never be seen as a solution to financial problems or a way to make money.
Age Verification
Online gambling in New Zealand is strictly for individuals aged 18 years and older. It is illegal for anyone under this age to participate in any form of gambling, including online pokies. All players must verify their age before accessing gambling services. If you are under 18, please do not use this site.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of these warning signs, you may be developing a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to win back money you've lost
- Gambling with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same level of excitement
- Hiding your gambling activity from friends, family, or partners
- Gambling to escape negative emotions, stress, or problems
- Neglecting work, study, or family responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Feeling irritable or anxious when trying to reduce or stop gambling
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
- Experiencing financial, relationship, or legal problems as a result of gambling
Self-Help Tools & Features
Most reputable online gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Restrict the amount you can lose in a set timeframe
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Session Time Limits: Set automatic disconnection after a specified time period
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling platforms
- Cooling-Off Periods: Take a break from gambling for a set period before re-accessing your account
We strongly encourage you to use these tools if you feel your gambling is getting out of control.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF): Free, confidential support for problem gambling
Phone: 0800 664 262 (toll-free) | Website: www.pgf.nz - Gambling Helpline: 0800 654 655 (available 24/7)
Website: www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
International Support
- Australia - Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- United Kingdom - GamCare: www.gamcare.org.uk
- United Kingdom - GamStop (Self-Exclusion): www.gamstop.co.uk
- Canada - Responsible Gambling Council: www.responsiblegambling.org
- United States - National Council on Problem Gambling: www.ncpgambling.org
If You Need Help
If you believe you have a gambling problem, please reach out for support immediately. There is no shame in seeking help—problem gambling is a health issue that can be addressed with proper support and treatment. Contact one of the organisations listed above or speak with a healthcare professional. Remember: you are not alone, and help is available.