Responsible gambling

Gambling should stay a form of entertainment you can afford, not a way to make money or to cope with stress. Most people play without harm, but for some it becomes a problem. This page explains the warning signs, the tools that help you stay in control, and where New Zealanders can get free, confidential help.

Warning signs

• Spending more time or money on gambling than you planned
• Chasing losses, or betting to win back what you lost
• Borrowing money, or gambling with money meant for bills
• Hiding your gambling from family or friends
• Feeling anxious, irritable or low when you are not gambling

Tools to stay in control

Reputable casinos give you tools to set your own limits. Use them before you need them:

• Deposit limits. Cap how much you can deposit per day, week or month.
• Loss and wager limits. Set a ceiling on losses or total bets.
• Session reminders and time-outs. Get a nudge after a set time, or lock yourself out for a short period.
• Self-exclusion. Close your account for months or years if you need a longer break.

Where to get help in New Zealand

• Gambling Helpline NZ: free, confidential support, any time on 0800 654 655, or text 8006. Website: gamblinghelpline.co.nz
• Safer Gambling / Health New Zealand: free counselling and support services nationwide
• Lifeline Aotearoa: 0800 543 354 for wider emotional support
• BetBlocker and Gamban: free software that blocks gambling sites on your devices

You must be 18 or older to gamble in New Zealand. If you are worried about someone else's gambling, the Gambling Helpline supports family and friends too.