Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income

Online pokies and casino games should only be played as a form of entertainment, similar to going to the movies or watching sports. They should never be viewed as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and you should only gamble with money you can afford to lose.

At ezishopping.co.nz, we are committed to promoting responsible gaming practices across all our recommended online pokies platforms.

Age Verification

In New Zealand, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gambling. All licensed operators are required to verify your age and identity before allowing you to play.

If you are under 18, we encourage you to speak with a trusted adult about gambling and its risks. Parents and caregivers should monitor young people's internet activity to prevent underage gambling.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. Check yourself against these warning signs:

• Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
• Hiding your gambling activities from friends, family, or partners
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
• Using gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
• Borrowing money or using credit to fund gambling
• Neglecting work, school, family, or social responsibilities
• Continuing to gamble despite financial, relationship, or health consequences
• Failed attempts to reduce or stop gambling
• Experiencing mood swings related to gambling wins and losses

If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, it's important to seek help immediately.

Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features

Most reputable online pokies platforms offer built-in tools to help you maintain control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose before you stop playing
• Reality Checks: Receive pop-up reminders during play sessions showing your time spent and money wagered
• Time-Out (Cool-Off Period): Take a break from gambling for a set period without closing your account
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently close your account and exclude yourself from gambling platforms
• Session Limits: Set the maximum duration for each gaming session

Take advantage of these features. They are designed to help you stay in control of your gambling.

Support Organizations for Problem Gambling in New Zealand

If you are struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available. The following organisations provide free, confidential support:

New Zealand-Specific Support

• Gambling Helpline (New Zealand)
  Free phone: 0800 654 655
  Available 24/7 for counselling and support
  Website: www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
• Problem Gambling Foundation
  Phone: 09 302 5600
  Email: [email protected]
  Website: www.problemgambling.org.nz

International Support Resources

• Gambling Help Online (Australia)
  www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• GamCare (United Kingdom)
  www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop (United Kingdom)
  National self-exclusion scheme: www.gamstop.co.uk
• Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
  www.responsiblegambling.org
• National Council on Problem Gambling (United States)
  www.ncpgambling.org

If You Need Help, Reach Out Today

If you or someone you care about is struggling with gambling, please don't wait. Help is available, and seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Contact the Gambling Helpline (NZ) today: 0800 654 655

Remember: it's never too late to get help, and recovery is possible. Many people have successfully overcome problem gambling with proper support and treatment.