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 a responsible mindset and set realistic expectations about outcomes.
Remember: the house always has a mathematical advantage, and all games are based on chance. Never gamble more than you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gaming in New Zealand. This is a legal requirement designed to protect young people from the potential harms of gambling.
If you are under 18, please do not use gaming services. Gaming operators are required to verify your age and may request identification documentation.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognise any of these warning signs in your behaviour, it may be time to seek help:
- Spending more time or money on gaming than intended
- Chasing losses by trying to win back money you've lost
- Hiding your gaming activity or lying about how much you're gambling
- Neglecting family, friends, work, or studies due to gaming
- Using gaming to escape from problems, stress, or negative emotions
- Feeling anxious or irritable when you're not gaming
- Borrowing money to fund your gaming
- Failed attempts to reduce or stop gaming
- Gaming with money intended for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
- Risking important relationships or opportunities because of gaming
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online gaming operators provide tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Restrict the amount of money you're willing to lose during a gaming session
- Session Time Limits: Set automatic reminders or cut-offs for how long you play
- Reality Checks: Enable pop-up notifications during gameplay to remind you of time and money spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming accounts
- Account Cooling-Off: Take a break from gaming for a set period
Use these features proactively to maintain healthy gaming habits.
Support Organizations in New Zealand & Beyond
If you're concerned about your gaming or need help, support is available. Here are trusted organisations you can contact:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (NZ): Free, confidential support | Phone: 0800 664 262 | www.pgf.nz
- Gamblers Anonymous (NZ): Peer support groups | www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz
- Samaritans: 24/7 emotional support | Phone: 0800 726 666
Australia
- Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
United Kingdom
- GamCare: www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop: www.gamstop.co.uk
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council: www.responsiblegambling.org
United States
- National Council on Problem Gambling: www.ncpgambling.org
Germany
- Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA): www.bzga.de
Take Action Today
If you think you might have a problem with gaming, reach out for help today. There is no shame in seeking support — problem gambling is a recognised condition, and help is available.
Don't wait: Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation on 0800 664 262 (NZ) or visit www.pgf.nz to speak with a counsellor.
Your wellbeing matters. Gaming should only ever be a fun, occasional activity — never a financial solution.