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 playing can be fun and exciting, it's important to approach gaming responsibly and understand the risks involved.

Remember: The house always has a mathematical advantage. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and set strict limits before you start playing.

Age Verification

Online pokies in New Zealand are only available to players aged 18 years and over. If you are under 18, you are legally prohibited from accessing and playing online pokies.

By using creatingcommunities.co.nz and its affiliated gambling services, you confirm that you are 18 years of age or older and meet all legal requirements to gamble in New Zealand.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek help:

• Chasing losses by gambling with more money to recover what you've lost
• Gambling with money meant for essential expenses (rent, food, bills)
• Hiding your gambling habits or lying to friends and family about how much you're gambling
• Feeling the need to gamble with increasingly larger amounts to get the same excitement
• Neglecting work, study, family, or social activities due to gambling
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when trying to reduce or stop gambling
• Using gambling as an escape from stress, depression, or other problems
• Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
• Failed attempts to control, cut back, or stop gambling
• Experiencing relationship problems or conflict due to gambling behaviour

Self-Help Tools & Controls

Most reputable online gaming platforms offer built-in tools to help you maintain control of your gaming:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit within a specified time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Restrict the maximum amount you can lose in a given timeframe
• Reality Checks: Receive regular notifications during gaming sessions to remind you how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing gaming platforms. This is a powerful tool if you feel your gambling is becoming problematic
• Session Time Limits: Set a maximum duration for your gaming sessions

Use these tools proactively and take advantage of them from the start.

Get Help & Support

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, professional help and support are available. New Zealand and international organisations offer free, confidential assistance:

New Zealand Resources

• Gambling Helpline (Aotearoa New Zealand): Free, confidential phone and online support
  www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
• Problem Gambling Foundation: Support and resources for people affected by problem gambling
  www.pgf.nz

International Resources

• GamCare (UK): Support and advice for problem gambling
  www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop (UK): Free national self-exclusion scheme
  www.gamstop.co.uk
• Gambling Help Online (Australia): Information and counselling support
  www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): Evidence-based resources and support
  www.responsiblegambling.org
• National Council on Problem Gambling (USA): Confidential helpline and resources
  www.ncpgambling.org

Take Action Today

If you suspect you may have a problem with gambling, please seek help immediately. Reaching out to one of the support organisations listed above is a sign of strength, not weakness. Help is free, confidential, and available 24/7.

Remember: problem gambling is treatable, and recovery is possible with the right support.

Your wellbeing is more important than any game.