Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
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 strategy that can guarantee winnings. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and you should only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
Online gambling in New Zealand is only available to players aged 18 years and over. If you are under 18, please do not access online pokies or gambling services. All licensed operators are required to verify your age before allowing you to play.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs, you may be developing a gambling problem:
- Spending more time and money on gambling than you intended
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to win back money
- Hiding your gambling or lying about how much you gamble
- Gambling to escape problems, stress, or difficult emotions
- Neglecting family, work, or other responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money or getting into debt to fund gambling
- Feeling anxious or irritable when trying to reduce or stop gambling
- Unsuccessful attempts to control or stop gambling
- Gambling with increasing amounts of money to get the same excitement
Self-Help Tools & Controls
Reputable online pokies operators offer tools to help you stay in 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 are willing to lose during a session or timeframe
- Time Limits: Receive reminders or automatic session timeouts to take breaks
- Reality Checks: Regular pop-up notifications showing how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from an operator's site for a set period or permanently
Use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gambling habits.
Support & Help Organizations
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, confidential support is available:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (NZ)
Free and confidential counselling and support
www.problemgambling.nz - Gambling Helpline NZ
Phone: 0800 654 655 (free, 24/7)
Email: [email protected]
International Resources
- GamCare (UK)
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (UK Self-Exclusion Scheme)
www.gamstop.co.uk - Gambling Help Online (Australia)
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
If You Need Help
There is no shame in seeking support. Gambling problems are treatable, and help is available. If you are struggling with problem gambling, please reach out to a counsellor or support service immediately. Many services are free, confidential, and available 24/7.
Contact the Gambling Helpline NZ now: 0800 654 655
This information is provided for harm minimisation purposes. Barrington Wine is committed to promoting responsible gaming and does not endorse problem gambling. By accessing online pokies, you agree to gamble responsibly and within your means.