Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online pokies can be an enjoyable form of entertainment when played responsibly. However, it's important to remember that gambling should never be viewed as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical edge, and you should only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
Set a budget for entertainment purposes, treat any losses as the cost of that entertainment, and never chase losses by gambling more.
Age Verification
In New Zealand, you must be at least 18 years of age to legally participate in gambling activities, including online pokies. If you are under 18, please do not use this service.
All licensed online gaming operators are required to verify the age and identity of their players in compliance with New Zealand's gambling regulations.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you experience any of the following, you may be developing a gambling problem:
- Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
- Hiding your gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
- Neglecting work, study, relationships, or hobbies due to gambling
- Borrowing money or using credit to fund gambling
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when unable to gamble
- Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Lying about the amount of money spent on gambling
- Gambling affecting your sleep, health, or mental wellbeing
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself, reach out for support immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Controls
Responsible gaming tools can help you maintain control. Most licensed operators offer:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a cap on the amount you're willing to lose
- Reality Checks: Receive regular notifications reminding you how long you've been gambling and how much you've spent
- Session Time Limits: Automatically close your account after a set duration
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing gambling services
Take advantage of these tools when registering or contact your operator's customer support to activate them on your account.
Support Organizations & Help
If you're struggling with gambling, help is available. The following organisations provide free, confidential support:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation: www.problemgambling.nz — Free counselling and support services for New Zealanders affected by problem gambling
- Gambling Helpline: 0800 664 262 — Free, 24/7 confidential helpline
- Samaritans (Mental Health Support): 1737 — Available 24/7 for emotional support
International Support
- GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (UK 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 organisations offer counselling, support groups, information resources, and referrals to treatment services at no cost.
Need Help? Take Action Today
If you believe you or someone you know may have a problem with gambling, please reach out to one of the support organisations listed above. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
In New Zealand, contact the Problem Gambling Foundation at 0800 664 262 (free, 24/7) or visit www.problemgambling.nz
Recovery is possible, and professional support is available to help you regain control.
aucklandjobs.info is committed to promoting responsible gaming. We support the New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs' gambling regulations and encourage all players to gamble responsibly.