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 understand that the house always has an advantage, and losses are a real possibility.

Set a budget you can afford to lose, treat any winnings as a bonus, and never gamble with money needed for essentials like rent, bills, or groceries.

Age Verification

Online pokies in New Zealand are strictly for players aged 18 years and over. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to gamble. If you are under the legal gambling age, please do not use this website or any online gambling services.

styluswriter.co.nz takes age verification seriously and reserves the right to request proof of age at any time.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognise any of the following signs in your own behaviour, it may be time to seek help:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to try to recover money lost
• Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
• Hiding gambling activity or lying about how much you gamble
• Neglecting family, friends, work, or other responsibilities because of gambling
• Experiencing anxiety, depression, or irritability when not gambling
• Needing to gamble with larger amounts to feel the same excitement
• Feeling unable to stop or control your gambling
• Borrowing money or using credit to fund gambling
• Experiencing financial difficulties due to gambling
• Others expressing concern about your gambling habits

If any of these apply to you, help is available.

Self-Help Tools & Safer Gaming Features

Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control over your gambling:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Restrict the total amount you are willing to lose over a set period
• Session Time Limits: Set automatic reminders or auto-logout after a certain period of play
• Reality Checks: Enable pop-up notifications during play to remind you how long you've been gambling and how much you've spent
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling platforms when you feel your play is becoming problematic

Take advantage of these tools and review your gambling activity regularly.

Support Organisations

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, support is available. The following organisations provide confidential help:

New Zealand

• Problem Gambling Foundation – 0800 664 262 (free call) | www.pgf.nz
• Gambling Helpline Aotearoa – 0800 654 655 | Online support available

International Support (If Accessing from Abroad)

• GamCare (UK) – www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop (UK Self-Exclusion) – www.gamstop.co.uk
• Gambling Help Online (Australia) – www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) – www.responsiblegambling.org
• National Council on Problem Gambling (USA) – www.ncpgambling.org

These organisations provide free, confidential support and counselling services. Don't hesitate to reach out — help is just a phone call or click away.

Need Help?

If you are experiencing problems with gambling, please seek help immediately. Problem gambling is treatable, and recovery is possible with the right support.

Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation on 0800 664 262 or visit www.pgf.nz for confidential assistance in New Zealand.

Remember: Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. You are not alone.