Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
Online pokies and casino games should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. They are games of chance designed for fun, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Always gamble within your means and remember that the house edge means losses are statistically inevitable over time.
Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years of age (or the legal gambling age in your jurisdiction) to access and participate in online gaming. If you are under the legal age, please do not proceed. Parents and guardians are encouraged to use parental controls to restrict access to gaming sites.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following behaviours in yourself or someone you know, it may indicate a problem with gambling:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding or lying about gambling activities and expenditure
- Gambling with money intended for bills, rent, or essential expenses
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to feel excitement
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control gambling
- Neglecting work, family, friends, or hobbies due to gambling
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Experiencing mood changes or depression related to gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems or negative feelings
Self-Help Tools and Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online gaming sites offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit over a set period (daily, weekly, monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose in a session or timeframe
- Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders about how long you have been playing and how much you have spent
- Time-Out/Cool-Off Period: Take a break from gambling for a set period (hours or days)
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from an online casino for a predetermined period (typically 6 months to 5 years)
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if you wish to stop gambling entirely
We encourage you to use these tools proactively and speak with customer support if you need assistance setting limits.
Support and Help Organizations in New Zealand
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, support is available:
New Zealand Resources:
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Problem Gambling Foundation (Aotearoa New Zealand)
Free and confidential support | www.pgf.nz | Phone: 0800 664 262 -
Gamblers Anonymous New Zealand
Peer support meetings | www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz -
Samaritans Aotearoa New Zealand
24/7 emotional support | Phone: 1700 (call or text)
International Resources:
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Gambling Help Online (Australia)
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au -
GamCare (United Kingdom)
www.gamcare.org.uk -
National Council on Problem Gambling (United States)
www.ncpgambling.org
If You Have a Problem, Seek Help Today
Problem gambling can affect anyone, but help is available and recovery is possible. If you feel your gambling is out of control, or if someone you care about is struggling:
- Reach out to one of the support organisations listed above
- Speak to a trusted friend, family member, or counsellor
- Contact your GP or local healthcare provider
- Use the self-exclusion and responsible gaming tools available on gaming sites
You are not alone, and support is free and confidential.