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 playing can be fun, it's important to understand that the house always has a mathematical edge, and you should only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to access and play online pokies in Aotearoa New Zealand. We are committed to preventing underage gambling and take age verification seriously. All users must verify their age and identity before creating an account and making deposits.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following behaviours in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek help:
- Chasing losses — trying to win back money you've lost by gambling more
- Hiding gambling activity — keeping your gambling secret from friends or whānau
- Spending more than intended — regularly gambling longer or with more money than planned
- Neglecting responsibilities — missing work, school, or family obligations due to gambling
- Borrowing to gamble — using loans, credit, or borrowed money to fund gambling
- Mood changes — becoming irritable, anxious, or depressed when unable to gamble
- Escalating stakes — needing to gamble with increasing amounts to feel the same excitement
- Failed attempts to stop — repeatedly trying to reduce or quit but unable to do so
Self-Help Tools & Safer Gambling Features
Most reputable online gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits — set a maximum amount you can deposit over a specific period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits — restrict the amount you're willing to lose in a given timeframe
- Reality Checks — receive regular pop-up reminders of how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Session Limits — set automatic time limits for your gaming sessions
- Self-Exclusion — temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling platforms
- Account Cooling-Off Period — take a break from gambling for a set period
We encourage you to use these tools proactively to maintain responsible gaming habits.
Support Organisations & Helplines
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Reach out to any of these organisations:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (Aotearoa) — 0800 664 262 (free, confidential helpline) | www.problemgambling.nz
- Gambling Helpline — 0800 654 655 (24/7 free counselling) | www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
Other Regions
- 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
All services are confidential, non-judgmental, and free to use.
If You Need Help
Don't struggle alone. If gambling is causing you stress, financial hardship, or affecting your relationships and wellbeing, please reach out to one of the support organisations above. Speaking to a counsellor can help you regain control and find solutions.
Your wellbeing matters. Help is just a phone call away.