At NZ Pokies Guide, we believe gambling should always be an enjoyable form of entertainment — never a source of stress or financial hardship. We encourage all players to gamble responsibly and to seek help immediately if gambling stops being fun.
NZ Gambling Helpline
Free, confidential support available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Text: 8006 | Online chat available at gamblinghelpline.co.nz
Signs of Problem Gambling
Gambling can become problematic without you realising it. Be honest with yourself about whether any of the following apply:
- Spending more money or time on gambling than you can afford
- Chasing losses — continuing to gamble to try and win back money you've lost
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Lying to family or friends about how much you gamble
- Borrowing money or selling belongings to fund gambling
- Neglecting work, relationships, or daily responsibilities because of gambling
- Using gambling as an escape from problems or negative emotions
If any of these resonate, please reach out to the helpline above. There is no judgement — trained counsellors are available to help.
Tools to Help You Stay in Control
Set Deposit Limits
Most reputable online pokie sites allow you to set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit caps. Once you hit your limit, you cannot deposit more until the period resets. Set these limits before you start playing.
Set Loss Limits
Similar to deposit limits, loss limits automatically restrict your account once net losses reach a defined amount. This prevents the dangerous cycle of chasing losses.
Time Reminders
Enable session time alerts that remind you how long you've been playing. Many sites can automatically log you out after a set duration.
Self-Exclusion
If you need a break, most NZ-friendly casinos offer self-exclusion periods ranging from 24 hours to permanent. During self-exclusion, your account is frozen and you cannot log in, deposit, or play.
NZ Support Resources
- Gambling Helpline NZ: 0800 654 655 (free, 24/7)
- Text support: 8006
- The Problem Gambling Foundation: Free face-to-face counselling across NZ
- Mapu Maia: Culturally responsive support for Pasifika communities
- Asian Family Services: 0800 862 342 (multilingual gambling support)
- 1737: Free to call or text for mental health support (not gambling-specific but available 24/7)
Our Commitment
NZ Pokies Guide only recommends online pokie sites that provide built-in responsible gambling tools. Sites that lack deposit limits, self-exclusion options, or clear responsible gambling information are excluded from our rankings regardless of their other qualities.