Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
Online pokies should only be played as a form of entertainment, similar to going to the movies or playing sports. It should never be viewed as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Remember: the house always has a mathematical advantage, and there is no guaranteed way to win.
Please gamble responsibly and within your means. Set a budget you can afford to lose and stick to it.
Age Verification
Online pokies in New Zealand are only available to individuals aged 18 years and over. If you are under 18, you must not participate in any form of gambling.
All legitimate online casinos require age verification before allowing access to gaming platforms. By using any gambling service, you confirm that you meet the legal age requirement in your jurisdiction.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may indicate a problem with gambling:
- Chasing losses by gambling more money to recover what you've lost
- Gambling with money intended for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
- Hiding your gambling activities or lying about how much you're gambling
- Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when trying to reduce gambling
- Neglecting work, family, or social commitments due to gambling
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Experiencing relationship problems because of gambling
- Using gambling as an escape from stress, anxiety, or depression
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop gambling
If you experience any of these signs, please seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools and Limits
Most reputable online casinos offer built-in tools to help you maintain control of your gambling:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Cap the amount of money you're willing to lose during a gaming session
- Reality Checks: Enable reminders that pop up during gameplay to remind you how long you've been playing
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from an online casino to take a break from gambling
- Time Limits: Set automatic session time limits to prevent extended play
Use these tools proactively to maintain control over your gaming. Many responsible operators make these features easily accessible in account settings.
Support Organizations in New Zealand and Beyond
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, confidential help and support are available:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF)
Free, confidential support for problem gambling in New Zealand
Phone: 0800 664 262
Website: www.pgf.nz - Samaritans
24/7 emotional support
Phone: 1737 (free call or text, available 24/7)
Website: www.1737.org.nz
International Support Services
- GamCare (United Kingdom)
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (United Kingdom)
National self-exclusion scheme
www.gamstop.co.uk - Gambling Help Online (Australia)
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
www.responsiblegambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling (United States)
www.ncpgambling.org
If You Need Help
Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you believe you have a gambling problem, or if gambling is affecting your life, relationships, or finances, please reach out for support immediately.
Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation today:
- Phone: 0800 664 262 (free, confidential)
- Website: www.pgf.nz
Remember: problem gambling is treatable, and recovery is possible with the right support.
This responsible gaming information is provided for educational purposes. cageconstructionnz.com is committed to promoting safe and responsible gaming practices. If you choose to gamble online, please do so responsibly and within your financial means.