Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online pokies and casino games should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. Gambling should never be viewed as a way to earn money, pay bills, or solve financial problems. When you play, only spend money you can afford to lose and set realistic expectations about outcomes.
Age Verification
In New Zealand, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gambling and pokies. If you are under 18, please do not use online gaming services. It is illegal for minors to gamble, and operators have a legal responsibility to verify player age and identity.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you experience any of the following, you may be developing a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
- Hiding gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
- Neglecting work, study, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
- Using gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or negative emotions
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Failed attempts to cut down or stop gambling
- Experiencing irritability or anxiety when not gambling
- Lying about the extent of your gambling involvement
- Jeopardizing relationships, education, or employment opportunities
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, help is available.
Self-Help Tools & Controls
Most responsible online gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Cap the maximum amount you are willing to lose during a gaming session
- Time Limits: Set session duration limits to control how long you play
- Reality Checks: Enable notifications during play to remind you of time and money spent
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from gambling services for a set period
Take advantage of these tools on SkyCity Online and other platforms to help manage your gaming responsibly.
Support Organisations & Resources
If you need help with problem gambling, the following organisations provide confidential support:
New Zealand
- Gambling Helpline NZ — Free, confidential support
Phone: 0800 664 262 (24/7)
Website: www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz - Problem Gambling Foundation
Website: www.pgf.nz
International Resources
- Australia: Gambling Help Online — www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- United Kingdom: GamCare — www.gamcare.org.uk
- United Kingdom: GamStop (National Self-Exclusion Scheme) — www.gamstop.co.uk
- Canada: Responsible Gambling Council — www.responsiblegambling.org
- United States: National Council on Problem Gambling — www.ncpgambling.org
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
Problem gambling is a real issue, but recovery is possible with the right support. You are not alone. If you or someone you care about is struggling with gambling, please contact the Gambling Helpline NZ on 0800 664 262 (available 24/7, free and confidential) or visit www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz.
Taking the first step to seek help is a sign of strength. Professional counsellors are ready to assist you.