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. While gaming can be fun and exciting, it's important to approach it with realistic expectations and set limits on your time and spending.
Remember: The house always has a mathematical advantage. Only gamble what you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to access online pokies in New Zealand. We take age verification seriously and comply with all NZ gambling regulations. It is illegal for under-18s to gamble.
By accessing createyourowneden.org.nz, you confirm that you are of legal age to gamble in your jurisdiction.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs, you may be developing a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
- Gambling for longer periods than intended
- Hiding your gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
- Neglecting work, study, or personal relationships due to gambling
- Experiencing anxiety, depression, or mood swings related to gambling
- Borrowing money or going into debt to gamble
- Feeling unable to stop or cut back on gambling
- Using gambling as an escape from problems or negative emotions
- Lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
- Experiencing financial difficulties because of gambling
If you recognise any of these signs, help is available. Please reach out to a support service.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online gaming platforms 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: Restrict the amount of money you're willing to lose in a session
- Time Limits: Set reminders or automatic session timeouts to manage your gaming duration
- Reality Checks: Enable pop-up notifications during play to remind you of time elapsed and money spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming platforms
- Cooling-Off Periods: Take a break from gaming for a set period
Use these tools proactively to maintain control over your gaming experience.
Support Organisations & Resources
If you need help, support is available. Please reach out to one of these trusted organisations:
New Zealand
- Gambling Helpline NZ – Free, confidential support
Phone: 0800 654 655 (available 24/7)
Website: www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz - Problem Gambling Foundation
Phone: 09 956 5959
Website: www.pgf.nz
Additional International Resources
- Australia: Gambling Help Online – www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- United Kingdom: GamCare – www.gamcare.org.uk
- United Kingdom: GamStop – www.gamstop.co.uk
- Canada: Responsible Gambling Council – www.responsiblegambling.org
- United States: National Council on Problem Gambling – www.ncpgambling.org
All of these services are confidential, free, and staffed by trained professionals.
Need Help Right Now?
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, please reach out for help today. There is no shame in seeking support—problem gambling is a recognised condition, and recovery is possible.
Contact the Gambling Helpline NZ on 0800 654 655 or visit www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
Remember: You don't have to face this alone. Help is available, and people care about your wellbeing.
This page provides general information about responsible gaming. For legal advice regarding gambling in New Zealand, please consult the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA).