Responsible Gaming

Introduction

Online pokies should be enjoyed as entertainment only. Gambling is not a reliable way to earn money or solve financial problems. It's important to view any money spent on gambling as the cost of entertainment, similar to going to the movies or other leisure activities. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose.

Age Verification

Online gambling in New Zealand is only available to players aged 18 years and over. If you are under the legal age, please do not participate in online gambling. Licensed operators are required to verify your age and identity before allowing you to play.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

If you notice any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may indicate a gambling problem:

• Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
• Hiding gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
• Gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
• Feeling anxious or irritable when trying to cut back or stop
• Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts
• Neglecting work, school, family, or social relationships
• Lying about the extent of your gambling
• Experiencing financial difficulties due to gambling
• Failed attempts to control or reduce gambling

Self-Help Tools

Most responsible gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose before stopping play
• Reality Checks: Receive reminders during gameplay about how long you've been playing
• Time-Out/Cool-Off Period: Take a break from gambling for a set period
• Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from gambling for a longer period (weeks, months, or years)

Support Organizations for New Zealand

If you need help with problem gambling, the following organizations provide free, confidential support:

• Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF) — The primary support service in New Zealand
  • Phone: 0800 664 262 (free call)
  • Website: www.pgf.nz
• Gambling Helpline — Free, confidential counselling
  • Phone: 0800 006 886
  • Available 24/7
• Samaritans — For emotional support and crisis assistance
  • Phone: 1737 (free call, available 24/7)
• Gamblers Anonymous — Peer support meetings throughout New Zealand
  • Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz

International Support Resources

Additional support is available from these international organizations:

• GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop (UK): www.gamstop.co.uk
• Gambling Help Online (Australia): www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org
• National Council on Problem Gambling (US): www.ncpgambling.org

Take Action Today

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, help is available and recovery is possible. Please reach out to one of the support organizations listed above. There is no shame in asking for help — gambling problems can affect anyone, and support services are here to assist you.

Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation today: 0800 664 262