Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Fun, Not a Financial Solution
At way2go.org.nz, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Online pokies should be enjoyed as entertainment only, never as a way to make money or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and there are no guaranteed winning strategies.
Please gamble within your means and only with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
In New Zealand, you must be 18 years of age or older to gamble legally. Online casinos and pokie sites are required to verify your age before allowing access to gaming platforms.
If you are under 18, please do not attempt to access online gambling services. If you're concerned about a young person's gambling, contact the organisations listed below for support.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Recognise these warning signs in yourself or others:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding gambling activity or lying about the amount spent
- Unable to stick to gambling limits or stop when intended
- Neglecting work, study, family, or social commitments due to gambling
- Borrowing money or using credit to fund gambling
- Experiencing mood swings or irritability when unable to gamble
- Gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or quit gambling
- Risking important relationships or opportunities because of gambling
- Feeling a constant urge to gamble with increasing amounts of money
If you recognise any of these signs, it's time to seek help.
Self-Help Tools & Safety Features
Most reputable online gaming sites offer responsible gaming tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit in a day, week, or month
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose during a gaming session
- Betting Limits: Restrict the maximum bet size per spin or game
- Reality Checks: Receive pop-up reminders during gaming sessions showing time spent and money wagered
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from a gaming site
- Account Closure: Close your account if you need a break from gambling
- Time Limits: Set maximum session durations
Use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gambling habits.
Support Organisations & Resources
If you're struggling with gambling, professional help is available. Here are trusted organisations you can contact:
New Zealand
- Gambling Helpline NZ – Free, confidential support
Phone: 0800 654 655
Available: 24/7 - Problem Gambling Foundation – Information and counselling services
Website: www.pgf.nz - Gamblers Anonymous – Peer support groups across NZ
Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz
International Resources
- GamCare (UK) – www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (UK Self-Exclusion) – 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
All calls and communications with these organisations are confidential.
Need Help Now?
If you're experiencing problems with gambling, please reach out today. Recovery is possible, and support is just a phone call or click away.
Call the Gambling Helpline NZ: 0800 654 655
Your wellbeing is more important than any game. Taking action today is a sign of strength, not weakness.