Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Fun, Not a Financial Solution

Online pokies should be enjoyed as entertainment only. Gambling is not a reliable way to earn money or solve financial problems. The odds always favour the house, and losses are an expected part of gaming. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and never chase losses.

Age Verification

You must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gaming in New Zealand. If you are under 18, please do not use our website or engage in any form of gambling. It is illegal and harmful to your wellbeing.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek help:

• Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
• Hiding gambling activities from friends, family, or partners
• Neglecting work, study, family, or other responsibilities due to gambling
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when trying to reduce gambling
• Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
• Lying about gambling habits or the amount of money spent
• Using gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
• Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
• Experiencing financial difficulties due to gambling losses

Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features

Most reputable online gaming operators offer tools to help you maintain control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Set a cap on how much you are willing to lose during a session
• Reality Checks: Receive reminders at regular intervals about how long you've been gaming and how much you've wagered
• Session Time Limits: Automatically log out after a set duration to prevent excessive play
• Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from gaming platforms for a period you choose (days, weeks, months, or permanently)
• Account Closure: Permanently close your account if you wish to stop gambling entirely

Use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gaming habits.

Support Organisations & Resources for New Zealand

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available:

New Zealand Services

• Problem Gambling Foundation – Free, confidential support and counselling
  Phone: 0800 664 262 | Website: www.pgf.nz
• Gambling Helpline NZ – 24/7 support line
  Phone: 0800 654 655 | Available anytime, anywhere
• Samaritans Aotearoa New Zealand – Emotional support and crisis intervention
  Phone: 1100 (free) | www.samaritans.org.nz

International Resources

• GamCare (UK) – www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop (UK) – 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 (USA) – www.ncpgambling.org

Need Help? Take Action Today

If you believe you have a gambling problem, or if someone close to you does, please reach out for support. There is no shame in asking for help. Trained counsellors are available to assist you, and recovery is possible.

Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation on 0800 664 262 or the Gambling Helpline on 0800 654 655 today.

Our Commitment

Focus2000.org.nz is committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. We support all players in making informed decisions and maintaining healthy gaming habits. By choosing to gamble responsibly, you protect your wellbeing and that of those around you.