Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
Online pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to make money or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical edge, and the outcome of every game is determined by random chance. Please gamble responsibly and within your means.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to access and use online pokie services in New Zealand. If you are under 18, please do not proceed. We are committed to preventing underage gambling.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs, you may be developing a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding or lying about the time and money spent gambling
- Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (bills, rent, food)
- Experiencing relationship problems due to gambling
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts to achieve the same excitement
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
- Borrowing money to gamble
- Neglecting work, study, or personal responsibilities
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online pokie operators provide tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose in a session or time period
- Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders about how long you've been playing and money spent
- Session Time Limits: Set automatic session timeouts to prevent extended play
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing gambling services
- Account Closure: Close your account if you wish to stop gambling entirely
We encourage you to use these tools proactively as part of your responsible gaming strategy.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you or someone you know needs help with problem gambling, these organisations provide free, confidential support:
New Zealand
- Gambling Helpline (NZ): 0800 654 655 — Free, confidential phone counselling available 24/7
- Problem Gambling Foundation: Provides support, information, and resources for New Zealanders affected by problem gambling
International Support
- GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk — Support for problem gambling in Great Britain
- GamStop (UK): www.gamstop.co.uk — National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling
- Gambling Help Online (Australia): www.gamblinghelponline.org.au — Support and treatment for Australian residents
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org — Resources and support for Canadian residents
- National Council on Problem Gambling (USA): www.ncpgambling.org — Help and information for problem gambling in the United States
Need Help?
If you believe you have a problem with gambling, or if someone you care about does, please seek help immediately. Problem gambling is a treatable condition, and support is available. Reach out to one of the organisations listed above — trained counsellors are ready to listen and help, completely confidentially and at no cost.
Remember: Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.