Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment

Online pokies and casino games should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. They are games of chance with unpredictable outcomes. Never view gambling as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and losses are a real possibility every time you play.

Gamble only with money you can afford to lose, and set strict limits before you start playing.

Age Verification

You must be 18 years of age or older to gamble online in New Zealand. This is a legal requirement. Online casinos and pokie sites are required to verify your age and identity before allowing you to play.

If you are under 18, please do not attempt to access gambling websites. Underage gambling can cause serious harm to your development and wellbeing.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

If you experience any of the following, you may be developing a gambling problem. Be honest with yourself:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to try to win back money you've lost
• Gambling with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same excitement
• Hiding your gambling activity or lying to friends and family about how much you gamble
• Neglecting work, study, relationships, or hobbies because of gambling
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when not gambling
• Gambling when stressed, upset, or to escape problems
• Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
• Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
• Using gambling as a primary source of income or financial solution
• Spending more time and money on gambling than intended

If you recognize these signs in yourself or someone you know, help is available.

Self-Help Tools & Safer Gambling Features

Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you stay in control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a set time period (daily, weekly, monthly)
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose
• Reality Checks: Receive pop-up notifications reminding you how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
• Cooling-Off Periods: Take a break from gambling for a set period (days or weeks) while retaining access to your account
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling sites—your account will be blocked and you cannot withdraw funds during this period
• Session Time Limits: Set automatic logout times to prevent extended play sessions

Use these tools actively. They are designed to protect you.

Support Organizations & Help Resources for New Zealand

If you're struggling with gambling, professional help is available. New Zealand residents can contact:

New Zealand National Services

• Gambling Helpline (NZ): 0800 654 655 (Free, confidential, 24/7)
  www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
• Problem Gambling Foundation (NZ): www.pgf.nz
  Phone: 0800 424 653

International Resources (If Applicable)

• GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk – Counselling and support for problem gamblers
• GamStop (UK): www.gamstop.co.uk – National self-exclusion scheme
• Gambling Help Online (Australia): www.gamblinghelponline.org.au – Free counselling and support
• Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org
• National Council on Problem Gambling (USA): www.ncpgambling.org

All services are confidential and non-judgmental. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

If You Need Help, Please Reach Out

Problem gambling is treatable, and recovery is possible. If you or someone you care about is struggling:

• Call the Gambling Helpline NZ on 0800 654 655 – available 24/7, free and confidential
• Visit www.pgf.nz for counselling and support services
• Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or healthcare professional
• Use your casino's self-exclusion feature immediately if you feel you've lost control

There is no shame in asking for help. Support is available right now.

Disclaimer: This page is provided for informational purposes. teawamuturotary.org.nz encourages responsible gaming and supports the wellbeing of all visitors. If you choose to gamble, do so responsibly and only with licensed, regulated operators. Problem gambling can have serious consequences for your finances, relationships, and mental health.