Need help now? Call the free, confidential Gambling Helpline NZ on 0800 654 655, text 8006, or visit safergambling.org.nz. Support is available 24/7.
Gambling should always be fun
Gambling is entertainment, not a way to make money or solve financial problems. The odds always favour the house over time. If it stops being fun, it is time to take a break. You must be 18 or older to gamble online in New Zealand (20 to enter a physical casino).
Signs of problem gambling
- Spending more money or time gambling than you planned
- Chasing losses β betting more to win back what you have lost
- Borrowing money, selling things, or neglecting bills to gamble
- Hiding your gambling from family or friends
- Feeling anxious, guilty or irritable about gambling
- Gambling to escape stress or low mood
Tools that help you stay in control
Every reputable casino and sportsbook offers responsible-gambling tools. Use them:
- Deposit limits β cap how much you can deposit per day, week or month.
- Loss & wager limits β set a ceiling on losses or total bets.
- Session reminders & time-outs β take a short cooling-off break.
- Reality checks β pop-ups showing how long you have played.
- Self-exclusion β lock yourself out for months or permanently.
Free support services in New Zealand
| Service | Contact | What they offer |
|---|---|---|
| Gambling Helpline NZ | 0800 654 655 Β· text 8006 | Free 24/7 phone, text & web chat support |
| Problem Gambling Foundation NZ | 0800 664 262 | Free counselling & support for gamblers and whΔnau |
| Mapu Maia (Pasifika) | 0800 21 21 22 | Culturally grounded support for Pasifika communities |
| Asian Family Services | 0800 862 342 | Support in multiple Asian languages |
| Safer Gambling Aotearoa | safergambling.org.nz | Tools, information & self-help |
Tips for gambling responsibly
- Set a budget before you play and never exceed it.
- Set a time limit and take regular breaks.
- Never gamble with money you need for essentials.
- Do not chase losses or gamble to win back money.
- Do not gamble when stressed, upset or under the influence.
- Balance gambling with other activities.
Helping a friend or family member? The services above support whΔnau too. You are not alone, and help is free and confidential.