Responsible Gaming
Introduction: Entertainment, Not Income
Online pokies should be enjoyed as entertainment only. Gambling should never be viewed as a way to make money, earn income, or solve financial problems. It's important to approach online gaming with realistic expectations and to only wager money you can afford to lose. Always set a budget and stick to it, treating any losses as the cost of entertainment.
Age Verification & Legal Requirements
Online pokies in New Zealand are only for players aged 18 years and over. If you are under 18, you are not permitted to gamble. We take age verification seriously and encourage all operators to implement strict identity checks. If you're underage and have concerns about a family member's gambling, please reach out to the support services listed below.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Do you recognise any of these warning signs in your gambling habits?
- Chasing losses — trying to win back money you've lost by gambling more
- Hiding or lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
- Gambling with money intended for bills, rent, or essentials
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Needing to gamble with larger amounts to achieve the same excitement
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Neglecting work, study, family, or other important relationships
- Borrowing money to gamble or cover gambling losses
- Gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
- Continuing to gamble despite negative consequences
If you recognise yourself in these signs, please seek help immediately. Problem gambling is treatable, and support is available.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online poker operators offer tools to help you gamble responsibly:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a limit on how much you're willing to lose
- Time Limits: Set reminders to take breaks during gaming sessions
- Reality Checks: Receive pop-up notifications showing your play time and money spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from an operator's platform
- Account Cooling-Off Period: Request a pause on your account before making it active again
Use these tools proactively to maintain control over your gambling.
Support Organizations for New Zealand
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, these organisations provide confidential, free support:
New Zealand-based Support
- Problem Gambling Foundation (Te Aka Whai Ora): Free helpline 0800 664 262 | www.pgf.nz
- Gamblers Anonymous NZ: Support meetings and peer assistance | www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz
International Support Resources
- GamCare (United Kingdom): www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (United Kingdom): Multi-operator self-exclusion scheme | www.gamstop.co.uk
- Gambling Help Online (Australia): www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (USA): www.ncpgambling.org
Take Action Today
If you think you have a gambling problem, seek help now. Problem gambling is a serious issue, but it is treatable. Reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness. Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation on 0800 664 262 (free, confidential, available 24/7) or visit their website to access counselling, support groups, and resources tailored to your needs.
Remember: Your wellbeing matters. If you're gambling is affecting your finances, relationships, work, or mental health, support is just a phone call away.