Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment

Online pokies should only be enjoyed as a form of entertainment. Gambling is not a reliable way to earn money or solve financial problems. Please gamble only with money you can afford to lose and set strict limits on your spending.

Remember: The odds are always in favor of the house. Play for fun, not profit.

Age Verification

You must be 18 years of age or older to gamble online in New Zealand. Online pokies are only for adults. If you are under 18, please do not access gambling websites or place any bets.

By using this website, you confirm that you are of legal age to gamble in your jurisdiction.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

If you recognize any of the following behaviors in yourself or someone you know, it may indicate a problem:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
• Hiding gambling activities or lying about time spent gambling
• Gambling with money needed for bills, rent, or essential expenses
• Difficulty controlling or stopping gambling sessions
• Neglecting family, friends, work, or study due to gambling
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
• Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money for the same excitement
• Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
• Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
• Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling

If you recognize these signs, seek help immediately.

Self-Help Tools & Limits

Many online gambling platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose during a session or time period
• Reality Checks: Enable reminders that pop up during gameplay to keep you aware of time and money spent
• Time Limits: Set automatic session timeouts to prevent extended gambling periods
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling platforms
• Account Restrictions: Reduce access to your account or disable certain features

Use these tools proactively to maintain responsible gaming habits.

Get Help – Support Organizations

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available:

New Zealand

• Gambling Helpline (NZ): 0800 654 655 (Free, 24/7) – www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
• Problem Gambling Foundation: www.problemgambling.nz

International Resources

• GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop (UK): www.gamstop.co.uk
• Gambling Help Online (Australia): www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org
• National Council on Problem Gambling (USA): www.ncpgambling.org

All support services are confidential and free.

If You Need Help

Do not wait. If gambling is causing problems in your life, reach out for support today. There is no shame in asking for help – problem gambling is a recognized health condition, and treatment is available.

Contact the Gambling Helpline on 0800 654 655 or visit www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz to speak with a trained counselor.

You can also speak with your GP, a mental health professional, or a trusted friend or family member.

Disclaimer: This page is intended to provide information about responsible gaming. activecitizenship.org.nz is committed to promoting safe and responsible online gambling practices. For specific advice about your situation, please consult with professional support services.