Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment

Online pokies and casino games should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. Gambling is never a reliable way to earn money or solve financial problems. Please gamble responsibly and within your means.

If you find yourself gambling more than intended or experiencing negative consequences, support is available.

Age Verification

You must be 18 years of age or older to gamble in New Zealand. We are committed to preventing underage gambling. If you are under 18, please do not access gambling sites or services.

Parents and guardians: if you have concerns about a young person's gambling, please contact the organisations listed below for guidance.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Are you experiencing any of these warning signs?

• Gambling more frequently or with larger amounts than intended
• Chasing losses by gambling more to win back money
• Hiding gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
• Neglecting work, study, family, or social responsibilities due to gambling
• Gambling to escape problems, stress, or difficult emotions
• Experiencing arguments with loved ones about gambling habits
• Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when unable to gamble
• Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
• Using gambling as the primary source of entertainment or income

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

Self-Help Tools & Resources

Many online casinos and gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe
• Loss Limits: Cap the amount you're willing to lose in a session or period
• Reality Checks: Receive notifications during play reminding you how long you've been gambling
• Time-Out: Take a break from gambling for a set period (hours to days)
• Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from gambling platforms for an extended period

Use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gambling habits. Contact your gaming provider if you need assistance setting these controls.

Support Organisations for New Zealand

NZ-Based Help

• Gambling Helpline (New Zealand)
  Phone: 0800 654 655 (Free and confidential)
  Website: www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
  Email: [email protected]
  Available 24/7 for free support and counselling
• Problem Gambling Foundation
  Phone: 09 302 7798
  Website: www.pgf.nz
  Support for individuals and whanau affected by problem gambling

International Support Services

• GamCare (UK)
  www.gamcare.org.uk
  Free counselling and support for gambling problems
• GamStop (UK Self-Exclusion Scheme)
  www.gamstop.co.uk
  Multi-operator self-exclusion programme
• Gambling Help Online (Australia)
  www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
  Information and counselling services
• Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
  www.responsiblegambling.org
  Research and resources on responsible gambling
• National Council on Problem Gambling (USA)
  www.ncpgambling.org
  Information and referrals for problem gambling

If You Need Help, Please Reach Out

Problem gambling is a serious issue, but it is treatable. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, please seek help today. There is no shame in asking for support.

Contact the Gambling Helpline (NZ) on 0800 654 655 — it's free, confidential, and available 24/7.

Remember: recovery is possible, and support is always available.