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. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and outcomes are determined by random number generators. Please gamble only with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
In New Zealand, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gambling and play pokies. If you are under 18, you are not permitted to use gaming services. It is illegal for operators to provide gambling services to minors.
drinksmart.co.nz takes age verification seriously and requires all users to confirm their age during registration.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may indicate problem gambling:
- Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Feeling anxious or irritable when trying to reduce or stop gambling
- Hiding gambling activities from family, friends, or healthcare providers
- Using gambling to escape from problems or negative emotions
- Neglecting work, study, or personal relationships due to gambling
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Experiencing financial hardship as a result of gambling
- Feeling that gambling is the only way to have fun or relax
Self-Help Tools & Features
Most reputable online pokie providers offer the following responsible gaming tools:
- Deposit Limits: Set a daily, weekly, or monthly limit on how much you can deposit
- Loss Limits: Set a limit on how much you are willing to lose in a gaming session
- Reality Checks: Receive automatic notifications during play to remind you how long you've been gaming and how much you've spent
- Session Time Limits: Set a maximum duration for each gaming session
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently close your account if you need a break from gambling
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account at any time
We encourage you to use these tools to maintain control over your gaming activity.
Support & Help Resources for New Zealand
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available:
New Zealand
- Gambling Helpline (New Zealand): 0800 654 655 — Free, confidential telephone counselling available 24/7
- Gambler's Anonymous (NZ): Support groups and mutual aid for people affected by problem gambling
- Problem Gambling Foundation: www.pgf.nz — Information and support services
International Resources
- GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk — Counselling and support for problem gamblers
- GamStop (UK): www.gamstop.co.uk — National self-exclusion scheme
- Gambling Help Online (Australia): www.gamblinghelponline.org.au — Online counselling and support
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org — Education and prevention resources
- National Council on Problem Gambling (USA): www.ncpgambling.org — Information and referral services
If You Need Help
Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you believe you have a problem with gambling, or if gambling is affecting your health, finances, or relationships, please reach out to one of the support organisations above.
You can also speak to your GP (General Practitioner) or mental health professional who can provide guidance and referrals to specialist gambling support services.
Remember: Problem gambling is treatable, and support is available. You are not alone.