Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
At feedthekids.org.nz, we believe online pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Gaming outcomes are determined by chance, and the house always has a mathematical edge. Play only with money you can afford to lose, and never gamble to recover losses.
Age Verification
In New Zealand, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gaming and pokies. We take age verification seriously and comply with all local regulations. If you are under 18, please do not use our platform or any online gaming services.
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 win back money you've lost
- Hiding your gambling activities from family or friends
- Gambling with money intended for bills, rent, or essential expenses
- Feeling anxious or irritable when not gambling
- Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
- Unable to cut back or stop gambling despite wanting to
- Borrowing money to fund gambling activities
- Neglecting work, school, or relationships due to gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
- Lying to others about the extent of your gambling
If you recognize these signs in your behaviour, please seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Controls
Most reputable online gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit within a specific timeframe
- Loss Limits: Establish a maximum amount you're willing to lose per session or week
- Time Limits: Set automatic session time-outs to limit playing duration
- Reality Checks: Enable periodic reminders of your playing time and money spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming accounts
Use these tools proactively to stay in control of your gaming habits.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you need help with problem gambling, the following organizations offer free, confidential support:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation
Phone: 0800 664 262
Website: www.pgf.nz
Free, confidential support and counselling services for problem gambling - Gambling Helpline
Phone: 0800 654 655
Available 24/7 for crisis support and referrals
Australia
- Gambling Help Online
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Counselling and support services for Australian residents
United Kingdom
- GamCare
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
Free information, advice, and counselling - GamStop
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling
North America
- National Council on Problem Gambling (USA)
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
Helpline: 1-800-522-4700 - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
If You Need Help
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, please reach out for help today. There is no shame in seeking support—gambling addiction is a recognized health condition, and recovery is possible.
Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation on 0800 664 262 or visit www.pgf.nz to access free, confidential counselling services.
Remember: Your health and wellbeing are more important than any game. Help is available.