Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment
Online pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While gaming can be fun and exciting, it's important to remember that the house always has an edge, and you should only ever gamble with money you can afford to lose.
Please gamble responsibly and within your means.
Age Verification
In Aotearoa New Zealand, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in gambling activities, including online pokies. We are committed to preventing underage gambling.
If you are under 18, please do not access online gambling services. If you are a parent or caregiver concerned about a young person's gambling habits, contact support services immediately.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Do you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know?
- Chasing losses by gambling with more money to try to recover what was lost
- Gambling with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same excitement
- Being unable to cut down or stop gambling despite wanting to
- Spending more time gambling than intended
- Gambling as a way to escape problems, stress, anxiety, or depression
- Hiding gambling activities or lying to family and friends about gambling habits
- Neglecting personal relationships, work, study, or responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money or getting into debt to fund gambling
- Feeling irritable or anxious when trying to reduce or stop gambling
- Experiencing mood swings or emotional distress related to gambling outcomes
If you or someone you care about is experiencing any of these warning signs, help is available.
Self-Help Tools & Limits
Most responsible online pokies platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a limit on the amount you're willing to lose in a given period
- Time Limits: Set reminders or automatic session time-outs to prevent extended gaming sessions
- Reality Checks: Regular pop-up notifications reminding you of the time spent and money wagered
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing gambling platforms
Use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gaming habits and stay in control of your gambling.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you need help or support with problem gambling, the following organisations are available:
New Zealand Support Services
- Gambling Harm Assessment & Treatment Service (GHATS) – Services funded by the Ministry of Health for New Zealand residents experiencing gambling harm. Contact your local DHB or visit your GP for referral.
- Problem Gambling Foundation – Free, confidential counselling and support services. Available to help individuals and families affected by problem gambling in Aotearoa.
International Support Services
- GamCare – www.gamcare.org.uk – Confidential support for problem gambling (UK-based)
- GamStop – www.gamstop.co.uk – National self-exclusion scheme (UK)
- Gambling Help Online – www.gamblinghelponline.org.au – Australian gambling support services
- Responsible Gambling Council – www.responsiblegambling.org – Canadian gambling harm reduction
- National Council on Problem Gambling – www.ncpgambling.org – US-based support and resources
All support services listed above offer confidential, non-judgmental assistance. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
If You're Struggling, Seek Help Today
Problem gambling is a real issue that affects thousands of New Zealanders and people worldwide. If you or someone you know is experiencing gambling-related harm, please reach out for support immediately. Help is available, and recovery is possible.
You are not alone. Support is just a call or click away.
Contact one of the services listed above or speak with a trusted friend, family member, or health professional about your concerns.