Responsible Play & Harm Prevention

Key principles

• Gambling should be entertainment, not a way to make money or pay debts.
• Only gamble with money and time you can afford to lose.
• Avoid gambling when stressed, upset, tired, or using alcohol/drugs.
• Gambling is not suitable for anyone under 18 (or the legal age for the product/service).

Warning signs (for you or someone close)

• Spending more time/money than planned; chasing losses.
• Borrowing, selling items, or missing bills due to gambling.
• Hiding gambling, lying about it, or feeling guilt/shame.
• Gambling to escape problems; irritability when trying to stop.

Time & spend controls (where available)

• Set a deposit/spend limit and a session time limit before you start.
• Use reminders, reality checks, and loss limits if an operator provides them.
• Turn off auto-play/quick-bet features and take regular breaks.
• Keep gambling separate from everyday banking (no overdrafts/credit where possible).

Cool-off & self-exclusion

If you need space, request a cool-off (temporary break) or self-exclusion (longer restriction) directly with the gambling operator you use. Ask for confirmation in writing and remove saved payment methods where possible.

For venue-based gambling, New Zealand venues can support exclusion processes—contact the venue manager or get help via the services below.

New Zealand support services

• Gambling Helpline NZ — 24/7 support: 0800 654 655 | text 8006 | gamblinghelpline.co.nz
• Healthline — 0800 611 116
• Lifeline — 0800 543 354 or 4357 (mobile)
• Emergency — Call 111 if you or someone else is in immediate danger.

Official information and regulation: New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs — Gambling.