Responsible Gaming

Gaming 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 approach it with realistic expectations and a clear understanding that the house always has an edge.

Play responsibly, within your means, and never gamble more than you can afford to lose.

Age Verification

Online pokies in New Zealand are restricted to players who are 18 years of age or older. It is illegal for minors to participate in gambling activities.

If you are under 18, please do not access gaming websites. If you suspect a minor is gambling online, please report it to the relevant authorities or contact Department of Internal Affairs (DIA).

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. Be aware of these warning signs:

• Chasing losses: Trying to recover lost money by gambling more
• Hiding gambling: Concealing the amount of time or money spent gambling
• Gambling with money needed for essentials: Using money for bills, rent, or food to gamble
• Neglecting relationships: Prioritising gambling over family, friends, or work
• Increasing stakes: Needing to bet more to get the same excitement
• Failed attempts to stop: Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce gambling
• Mood changes: Becoming irritable or anxious when unable to gamble
• Financial difficulties: Borrowing money or going into debt to gamble
• Lying about gambling: Deceiving others about the extent of your gaming
• Escape through gambling: Using gaming to cope with stress, anxiety, or depression

If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, seek help immediately.

Self-Help Tools & Responsible Limits

Most reputable online gaming operators offer tools to help you stay in control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose before stopping play
• Time Limits: Set alarms or reminders to take breaks during gaming sessions
• Reality Checks: Enable pop-up notifications that remind you how long you've been playing
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming accounts
• Session Timeouts: Automatically log out after a set period of inactivity

Use these tools proactively to maintain control over your gaming and protect your financial wellbeing.

Support & Help Organizations

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available:

New Zealand Resources

• Gambling Help Online (Australia/Pacific region support)
  Provides counselling, self-assessment tools, and resources for problem gambling
• Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) – www.dia.govt.nz
  Regulatory body overseeing gambling in New Zealand

International Support Services

• GamCare (UK)
  Free and confidential support for problem gamblers and their families
• GamStop (UK)
  National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling
• National Council on Problem Gambling (USA)
  Information and referrals for problem gambling help
• Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
  Evidence-based gambling awareness and prevention

If You Need Help

Problem gambling is treatable. Reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether you're experiencing signs of problem gambling yourself or are concerned about someone else, support is available.

Take action today:

• Contact a support organisation listed above
• Speak with a counsellor or therapist
• Use self-exclusion tools on gaming platforms
• Talk to a trusted friend or family member
• Call a helpline for immediate support

Remember: You are not alone. Help is available, and recovery is possible.