Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
Online pokies and casino games are designed for entertainment purposes only. They should never be viewed as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and all outcomes are determined by random chance. Enjoy responsibly, within your means, and only with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to gamble in New Zealand. This is a legal requirement under the Gambling Act 2003. If you are under 18, please do not engage with online gambling services. If you are a parent or guardian concerned about a young person's gambling, contact support services immediately.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may indicate a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses: Gambling more to try to recover money you've lost
- Hiding gambling activity: Being secretive about how much or how often you gamble
- Loss of control: Gambling for longer or with larger amounts than intended
- Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, family time, or personal obligations due to gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble: Using loans, credit cards, or borrowed funds for gambling
- Mood changes: Becoming irritable, anxious, or depressed when unable to gamble
- Tolerance: Needing to gamble with increasing amounts to achieve the same excitement
- Failed attempts to stop: Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce or quit gambling
- Relationship strain: Gambling causing conflict with family or friends
- Financial problems: Struggling with bills, debt, or unexplained financial difficulties
Self-Help Tools & Safer Gambling Features
Most responsible online gambling operators provide tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period (daily, weekly, monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose over a given timeframe
- Reality Checks: Regular reminders of how long you've been playing and how much you've wagered
- Session Limits: Automatic session timeouts to prevent extended gambling sessions
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling sites
- Budget Management: Track your spending and set a gambling budget as part of your entertainment expenses
Use these tools proactively before problems develop. They are your first line of defence in responsible gambling.
Support & Help Services for New Zealand
If you or someone you know needs help with problem gambling, support is available:
New Zealand Services
- Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF)
Helpline: 0800 664 262
Website: www.pgf.nz
Free, confidential support and counselling services available 24/7 - Gambling Helpline NZ
Helpline: 0800 654 655
Free and confidential help from trained counsellors
International Services
- GamCare (United Kingdom)
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (United Kingdom)
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk - Gambling Help Online (Australia)
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling (United States)
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
Problem gambling is treatable, and recovery is possible. You are not alone. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether you're experiencing mild concerns or serious difficulties, professional support is available and confidential.
Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation on 0800 664 262 or visit www.pgf.nz for immediate assistance.
Remember: gambling should enhance your entertainment, not compromise your wellbeing, relationships, or financial security.