Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
Online pokies should only be played as a form of entertainment with money you can afford to lose. Gambling is never a reliable way to earn money or solve financial problems. Always play within your means and remember that the house has a mathematical edge on all games.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to access and use online pokies services in New Zealand. We are committed to preventing underage gambling. If you are under 18, please do not proceed. If you suspect a minor is gambling online, please report this to the Department of Internal Affairs.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs, you may have a gambling problem. Please seek help immediately:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Spending more money or time gambling than intended
- Hiding gambling activities or lying about how much you gamble
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when trying to cut down
- Using gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
- Borrowing money to gamble or gambling with money needed for essentials
- Neglecting family, work, school, or other responsibilities
- Continuing to gamble despite negative consequences
- Failed attempts to control or stop gambling
- Loss of interest in hobbies or activities you previously enjoyed
Self-Help Tools
Most reputable online pokies providers offer responsible gaming tools to help you maintain control. These include:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified timeframe (daily, weekly, monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose in a session or over time
- Session Time Limits: Automatically log you out after a set period to prevent extended play
- Reality Checks: Receive pop-up reminders during play showing your time spent and money wagered
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing online pokies services
- Account Closure: Close your account if you need to stop gambling completely
Use these tools proactively and adjust them as needed to support your responsible gaming habits.
Support Organisations
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, help is available. Please contact one of these organisations:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation: www.pgf.nz | Free counselling and support services
- Gamblers Anonymous: www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz | Support meetings and peer assistance
- Department of Internal Affairs - Gambling Commission: www.dia.govt.nz | Regulatory oversight and complaints
International Resources
- GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (UK): www.gamstop.co.uk | National self-exclusion scheme
- Gambling Help Online (Australia): www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (US): www.ncpgambling.org
Get Help Today
If you're experiencing problem gambling, please don't hesitate to reach out for support. Speaking to someone is the first step towards recovery, and professional help is available and effective.
Free and confidential support is available 24/7 through the Problem Gambling Foundation and other listed organisations above.