Responsible Gaming
Introduction
At insideoutnutrition.co.nz, we believe online pokies should be enjoyed as entertainment only, never as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Gaming should be fun, exciting, and within your means. If you find yourself gambling more than intended or chasing losses, please seek help immediately.
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 online. If you are under the legal age, please do not participate in any gaming activities. Parents and guardians are encouraged to monitor young people's internet use.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of these warning signs in yourself or someone you know, it may indicate a gambling problem:
- Spending more money or time gambling than intended
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money
- Hiding gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
- Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or other emotional issues
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Neglecting work, study, or personal relationships due to gambling
- Experiencing mood swings or irritability when unable to gamble
- Failed attempts to reduce or stop gambling
- Lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
Self-Help Tools
Most responsible online gaming platforms offer tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Cap the amount you are willing to lose during a gaming session
- Time-Out: Take a break from gambling for a set period to reassess your habits
- Reality Checks: Enable notifications that remind you how long you've been playing
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming platforms
We encourage you to use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gaming habits.
Support Organizations in New Zealand
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. The following organisations provide free, confidential support:
New Zealand
- Gambling Harm Support: www.gamblingharm.org.nz
- Problem Gambling Foundation: Call 0800 664 262 (free call) or visit their website for resources and counselling options
- Samaritans Aotearoa: www.samaritans.org.nz – Available 24/7 for emotional support
International Resources
- GamCare (United Kingdom): www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (United Kingdom): www.gamstop.co.uk – National self-exclusion scheme
- Gambling Help Online (Australia): www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (United States): www.ncpgambling.org
Call to Action
If you think you have a problem with gambling, please reach out for help today. There is no shame in seeking support – help is confidential, free, and available to you. The longer you wait, the harder it can become to recover. Contact one of the organisations above or speak to a trusted friend, family member, or healthcare professional. Your wellbeing is more important than any game.
Remember: Gambling should only ever be entertainment. If it's causing you harm, it's time to stop and seek help.