Responsible Gaming
Introduction
At School and More, we are committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Online pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. If you choose to play, please do so within your means and set strict limits on time and money spent.
Remember: the house always has an edge. Only gamble what you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to gamble online in New Zealand. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to participate in online gambling. If you are underage, please do not access gambling services. Parents and guardians are encouraged to monitor young people's internet activity.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you experience any of the following signs, you may be developing a problem with gambling:
- 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
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when trying to reduce gambling
- Borrowing money to fund gambling activities
- Using gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
- Neglecting work, family, or personal relationships due to gambling
- Lying about the extent of your gambling
- Experiencing financial difficulties due to gambling
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop gambling
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, help is available.
Self-Help Tools
Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you gamble responsibly:
- Deposit Limits: Set a daily, weekly, or monthly cap on the amount you can deposit into your account.
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose before stopping play.
- Session Limits: Set time limits for your gaming sessions to prevent extended play.
- Reality Checks: Enable popup reminders to notify you of how long you have been playing and how much you have spent.
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently close your account if you feel you are losing control.
These tools empower you to maintain control and protect your wellbeing.
Support Organisations in New Zealand
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, support is available:
New Zealand Support Services
- Gambling Helpline (New Zealand): 0800 664 262 (free call) — A confidential support line operated by the Department of Internal Affairs and available 24/7.
- Problem Gambling Foundation: Available through the Gambling Helpline, offering counselling and support services.
- Salvation Army (Financial Support): Offers financial assistance and budgeting support for those affected by problem gambling.
International Support Services
- GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk — Free support and counselling services.
- GamStop (UK): www.gamstop.co.uk — National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling.
- Gambling Help Online (Australia): www.gamblinghelponline.org.au — Counselling and support information.
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org — Resources and support tools.
- National Council on Problem Gambling (USA): www.ncpgambling.org — Information and referral services.
Call to Action
If you are struggling with problem gambling, please reach out for help today. There is no shame in seeking support — thousands of people have overcome gambling problems with professional assistance.
Contact the Gambling Helpline (New Zealand) on 0800 664 262 or visit these websites for confidential support and advice. Help is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Your wellbeing is important to us. Play responsibly, within your limits, and always seek help if you need it.