Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
At PCANZ, we believe that online pokies should be enjoyed as entertainment only. Gambling should never be viewed as a way to earn money, pay bills, or solve financial problems. Set a budget you can afford to lose and stick to it. Remember, the house always has an edge, and outcomes are determined by chance.
Age Verification
Online pokies in New Zealand are strictly reserved for players aged 18 years and over. If you are under 18, you must not gamble. It is illegal to provide gambling services to minors.
By accessing our website and any linked gambling services, you confirm that you are at least 18 years of age and comply with all applicable New Zealand gaming laws.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in your behaviour, you may be developing a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by gambling with more money to recover what you've lost
- Hiding your gambling activities or lying to friends and family about how much you gamble
- Gambling with money you cannot afford to lose
- Unable to stop or cut back on gambling despite wanting to
- Neglecting work, study, or personal relationships due to gambling
- Borrowing money or going into debt to finance gambling
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Gambling to escape stress, depression, or other emotional problems
- Experiencing blackouts or memory gaps related to gambling sessions
- Risking important opportunities or relationships because of gambling
If you experience any of these warning signs, seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Controls
Most reputable online gambling operators offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Cap the amount you're willing to lose in a set timeframe
- Reality Checks: Receive reminders about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Session Limits: Set a time limit for your gaming sessions
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling platforms
- Cool-Off Periods: Take a break from gambling for a set duration
Use these tools proactively. They are designed to protect you and help maintain responsible gambling habits.
Support Organisations & Helplines
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Please contact one of the following organisations:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (Te Punaha Āwhina)
Free, confidential counselling and support
Phone: 0800 664 262
Website: www.pgf.nz - Gambling Helpline (National Problem Gambling Services)
24/7 helpline for problem gambling support
Phone: 0800 654 655
International Support
- 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
Problem gambling is a serious issue, but recovery is possible. If you believe you have a gambling problem, or if someone you care about does, please reach out to one of the support organisations listed above. Counsellors are trained, confidential, and non-judgmental.
You can also speak with a doctor, mental health professional, or trusted family member. Taking the first step to seek help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Remember: Gambling should only ever be for entertainment. Never gamble with money you need for essentials.