Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
Online pokies 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 has a mathematical edge. If you find yourself gambling to make money or chase losses, it's time to seek help.
Age Verification
Online gambling in New Zealand is only for individuals aged 18 years and older. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to gamble online. If you are under the legal age, please do not participate in online gambling activities.
All licensed operators are required to verify your age before allowing access to gambling services.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, problem gambling may be developing:
- Chasing losses: Trying to recover money lost by gambling more
- Hiding gambling: Concealing the amount of time or money spent gambling
- Loss of control: Inability to stop or reduce gambling despite wanting to
- Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family obligations due to gambling
- Borrowing to gamble: Taking loans or using credit to fund gambling
- Mood changes: Becoming anxious, irritable, or depressed when unable to gamble
- Escalating stakes: Needing to gamble larger amounts to achieve the same excitement
- Financial difficulties: Gambling despite money problems or mounting debts
- Relationship strain: Arguments with family or friends about gambling habits
- Failed attempts to quit: Repeated unsuccessful efforts to cut back or stop
Self-Help Tools and Controls
Most reputable online gambling operators offer self-help tools to promote responsible gaming:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Restrict the maximum amount you can lose in a set period
- Spending Limits: Cap your total gambling expenditure
- Reality Checks: Enable reminders to check how long you've been gambling and how much you've spent
- Time-Out: Take a temporary break from gambling for a period you choose (hours, days, or weeks)
- Self-Exclusion: Permanently or temporarily exclude yourself from gambling accounts
These tools are designed to help you stay in control. Use them proactively to manage your gambling activity.
Support Organisations in New Zealand and Beyond
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available:
New Zealand Services
- Gambling Helpline (Aotearoa): Free, confidential support for problem gambling in New Zealand. Services available 24/7. Contact your local Gambling Helpline for assistance.
- Samaritans NZ: Emotional support and crisis intervention. Phone: 1737 (Free call or text, available 24/7)
International Services
- GamCare (United Kingdom): Free counselling and support for problem gamblers. www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (United Kingdom): National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling. www.gamstop.co.uk
- Gambling Help Online (Australia): Free counselling and support services. www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): Evidence-based information and resources. www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (United States): Resources and helpline information. www.ncpgambling.org
If You Need Help
Problem gambling is a treatable condition. Reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether you're concerned about your own gambling or that of someone close to you, professional help is available and effective.
Do not hesitate to contact one of the support organisations listed above. Your confidentiality is protected, and trained counsellors are ready to help.
Remember: First Do No Harm — gaming should enhance your life, not harm it.
This information is provided for educational purposes. FirstDoNoHarm.org.nz is committed to promoting responsible gaming in New Zealand. If you have any concerns about your gambling behaviour, please reach out to the appropriate support services in your region.