Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
Online pokies and casino games are designed for entertainment purposes only. They should never be viewed as a way to make money or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and losses are an expected part of gaming. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and always set strict limits before you start playing.
Age Verification
All players must be at least 18 years of age or the legal gambling age in their jurisdiction in New Zealand to use online pokies or casino services. It is illegal for anyone under this age to participate in gambling activities. By accessing this website, you confirm that you meet this legal requirement.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you experience any of the following, you may have a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to recover money you've lost
- Gambling with money needed for essentials like bills, rent, or food
- Hiding your gambling activities or lying about how much you gamble
- Experiencing relationship problems due to your gambling
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when you're not gambling
- Gambling for longer periods or with larger amounts than intended
- Borrowing money to fund your gambling
- Neglecting work, school, or family responsibilities
- Using gambling as an escape from stress or emotional problems
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut down or stop gambling
If you recognise any of these warning signs in yourself or someone you know, help is available.
Self-Help Tools & Controls
Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose before stopping play
- Reality Checks: Enable pop-up reminders showing how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling websites
- Time Limits: Set alarms to remind you when your allocated gaming time has ended
- Account Restrictions: Ask your casino to restrict your account access during vulnerable times
Use these tools proactively to maintain control over your gambling activities.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you need help with problem gambling, these organisations provide free, confidential support:
New Zealand
- Gambling Helpline Aotearoa: Free call 0800 654 655 (24/7) or text 8393
- Problem Gambling Foundation: www.pgf.nz
International Support Services
- 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 (US): www.ncpgambling.org
If You Need Help, Reach Out
Problem gambling is treatable, and support is available. If gambling is affecting your life or the lives of those around you, please don't hesitate to contact one of the support organisations listed above. Speaking to someone is a sign of strength, not weakness. Help is free, confidential, and available 24/7.
Remember: You are not alone, and recovery is possible.