Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
Online pokies should only be enjoyed as a form of entertainment with money you can afford to lose. Gambling is never a reliable way to earn money or solve financial problems. Always gamble within your means and set strict limits on both time and spending.
Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years of age to gamble in New Zealand. If you are under 18, do not use any online pokies services. Gambling is illegal for minors and can cause serious harm to young people's development and wellbeing.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone else, problem gambling may be developing:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to recover money you've lost
- Gambling with money needed for essentials like rent, bills, or food
- Hiding your gambling activities or lying about how much you gamble
- Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or other emotional problems
- Feeling unable to stop gambling or control the amount you spend
- Neglecting family, work, or social commitments due to gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts
- Feeling irritable or anxious when you try to reduce or stop gambling
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts to feel the same excitement
Self-Help Tools & Controls
Most reputable online pokies providers offer responsible gaming tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Restrict how much you're willing to lose in a session or over a period of time
- Reality Checks: Receive notifications during your gaming session to remind you how long you've been playing
- Session Time Limits: Set a maximum duration for each gambling session
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling accounts
Use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gambling habits.
Support Organisations in New Zealand
If you're struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available. Contact these organisations:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation
Phone: 0800 664 262 (free, confidential)
Website: www.problemgambling.nz - Gamblers Anonymous
Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz
Peer support meetings throughout New Zealand - 1Doc3 (Telehealth)
Phone: 09 374 5100
Online counselling and support services
International Resources
- Gamblers Anonymous (International)
www.gamblersanonymous.org
If You Need Help
Problem gambling is a serious issue, but recovery is possible with the right support. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, please reach out today. Speaking to a counsellor is confidential, free, and the first step towards regaining control.
Remember: It's never too late to ask for help.
This information is provided for harm reduction purposes. gregweeksmotors.co.nz is committed to supporting responsible gaming in New Zealand. If you continue to experience problems with gambling after seeking help, please contact your local health provider or mental health services.