Responsible Gaming
Introduction
Online pokies should be enjoyed as entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Gambling outcomes are determined by chance, and the house always has a mathematical advantage. Play with money you can afford to lose, and remember that losses are part of the experience.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to gamble online in New Zealand. If you are under 18, please do not use gambling services. It is illegal for minors to participate in gambling activities.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you experience any of the following, you may be developing a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by gambling more money to try to recover what you've lost
- Hiding your gambling activity or lying about how much you gamble
- Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
- Neglecting family, work, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to feel the same excitement
- Failed attempts to cut down or stop gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems or cope with stress and negative emotions
- Borrowing money to gamble or pay off gambling debts
- Experiencing financial, legal, or relationship difficulties due to gambling
Self-Help Tools
Many online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control. Take advantage of these features:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit over a specific period
- Loss Limits: Cap the maximum losses you're willing to accept
- Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders about how long you've been gambling
- Session Time Limits: Automatically end your session after a set period
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling platforms
If you use these tools, stick to your limits. They are only effective if you respect them.
Support Organizations in New Zealand and Beyond
If you're struggling with problem gambling, help is available. These organizations offer free, confidential support:
- Problem Gambling Foundation (NZ): www.pgf.nz or call 0800 664 262 (free and confidential)
- Gambling Harm Reduction Programme (NZ): Support services available through your local District Health Board
- GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (UK): www.gamstop.co.uk (national self-exclusion scheme)
- Gambling Help Online (Australia): www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (USA): www.ncpgambling.org
Take Action Today
If you believe you have a problem with gambling, please seek help immediately. Problem gambling can affect your finances, relationships, and mental health. The organizations listed above are trained to help and provide support in complete confidence. You are not alone, and recovery is possible.
Remember: Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.