Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online pokies and casino games should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. They are games of chance with built-in house advantages. Never view gambling as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and always set strict limits on your spending and time.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to play online pokies in New Zealand. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to gamble. If you are under 18, you must not use this website. We take age verification seriously and reserve the right to request proof of identity.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, please seek help immediately:
- Chasing losses by gambling more money to try to win back what you've lost
- Hiding your gambling habits or lying about the amount you gamble
- Gambling with money intended for bills, rent, or other essential expenses
- Neglecting work, study, family, or relationships due to gambling
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same excitement
- Failed attempts to reduce or stop gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
- Borrowing money or running up debt to fund gambling
- Experiencing physical symptoms such as sleep problems or headaches related to gambling stress
Self-Help Tools & Controls
Most reputable online gaming operators offer responsible gambling tools. Take advantage of these features:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit per day, week, or month
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose in a given period
- Time Limits: Set reminders and automatic session timeouts to limit your playing time
- Reality Checks: Enable pop-up notifications to remind you how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from online gaming platforms for a specified period (typically 6 months to 5 years)
- Account Closure: Permanently close your gaming account if you wish to stop entirely
Use these tools proactively before problems develop.
Support Organisations & Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Contact one of these organisations:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (Aotearoa) – Free, confidential counselling and support services for New Zealanders affected by problem gambling. Visit their website or call for assistance.
- Gamblers Anonymous – Free peer support meetings throughout New Zealand for people in recovery from gambling addiction.
International Resources
- GamCare (UK) – www.gamcare.org.uk – Free confidential support for problem gambling across the UK
- GamStop (UK) – www.gamstop.co.uk – National self-exclusion scheme for UK online gambling
- Gambling Help Online (Australia) – www.gamblinghelponline.org.au – Counselling and support for problem gamblers in Australia
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) – www.responsiblegambling.org – Resources and support for Canadian gamblers
- National Council on Problem Gambling (USA) – www.ncpgambling.org – Help line and resources for problem gambling in the United States
All support services are confidential and free to access.
Take Action Today
If you believe you have a problem with gambling, please seek help immediately. There is no shame in reaching out. Professional counsellors and support groups are available to assist you in regaining control of your gambling and your life.
Problem gambling affects not only the individual but also families and communities. If you need support, contact one of the organisations listed above today.
Remember: It's never too late to ask for help.