Responsible Gaming
Introduction to Responsible Gaming
Online pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. There is no guaranteed way to win, and the odds always favour the house. Please gamble only with money you can afford to lose, and set strict limits before you begin playing.
Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years of age (or the legal gambling age in your jurisdiction) to participate in online gaming. Online pokies are strictly for adults only. If you are under the legal age, please do not attempt to access gaming sites.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone else, it may indicate a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to win back money you've lost
- Hiding or lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
- Gambling with money intended for bills, rent, or essential expenses
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Neglecting family, work, or social responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Failed attempts to cut down or stop gambling
- Using gambling as an escape from stress, depression, or other problems
- Constantly thinking about gambling or planning the next gaming session
- Gambling for longer periods or with larger amounts than intended
If you experience any of these warning signs, please seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools and Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose before stopping play
- Session Time Limits: Receive alerts or automatic disconnection after a set gaming duration
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders of how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing gaming sites
Take advantage of these tools to help manage your gaming and protect your wellbeing.
Support Organizations in New Zealand and Worldwide
If you need help or advice about gambling, the following organizations offer free, confidential support:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (NZ): 0800 664 262 (toll-free) | www.pgf.nz
- Gamblers Anonymous (NZ): www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz
International Support Services
- GamCare (United Kingdom): www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (United Kingdom Self-Exclusion): 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
These organizations provide free confidential counselling, support groups, and resources for problem gambling.
If You Need Help
If you think you may have a gambling problem, please reach out for help today. There is no shame in seeking support. Help is available, and recovery is possible. Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation (NZ) on 0800 664 262 or visit www.pgf.nz for immediate assistance.
Remember: gambling should be fun, not harmful. If it stops being enjoyable, it's time to seek help.