By Marama TaitNeed help now? Call the Gambling Helpline New Zealand free on 0800 654 655, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also free-text 8006, or chat online at gamblinghelpline.co.nz.
Know the signs
Gambling may be becoming a problem if you’re betting more than you can afford, chasing losses, borrowing to gamble, hiding it from people close to you, or feeling anxious or low about it. You don’t have to wait until things are serious to get support.
Tools that help you stay in control
- Deposit limits — set a daily, weekly or monthly cap in your account settings before you play. Every licensed casino offers this.
- Loss and session limits — cap what you can lose, or how long you play, in one sitting.
- Reality checks — on-screen reminders of how long you’ve been playing.
- Time-out — a short cool-off (24 hours to 6 weeks) that locks your account.
- Self-exclusion — a longer block (6 months or more) when you need a real break.
Free support services in New Zealand
- Gambling Helpline NZ — 0800 654 655, 24/7, free and confidential.
- Problem Gambling Foundation of New Zealand — free counselling, pgf.nz, 0800 664 262.
- Salvation Army Oasis — free gambling-harm support nationwide.
- Safer Gambling Aotearoa — tools and information for players and whānau.
- Lifeline Aotearoa — 0800 543 354, if you need to talk about anything.
Keeping it fun
Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, set your limits before you start, never chase losses, and take regular breaks. Gambling is never a solution to money problems. You must be 18 or over to gamble in New Zealand.