Gambling is a common part of everyday life in New Zealand. Many people buy lottery tickets, place an occasional bet on sports, or enjoy online casino games for fun. For most players, gambling remains a harmless form of entertainment. However, for some, it can gradually become something more serious and difficult to control.
Gambling has existed for thousands of years, evolving from simple games using stones or sticks to modern online pokies and casino platforms. While the format has changed, the risks remain the same. Not everyone experiences gambling in the same way — what feels like casual entertainment for one person may turn into problematic behaviour for another.
Gambling as Entertainment, Not a Solution
Online casinos and sportsbooks are not inherently harmful. When properly regulated and used responsibly, they provide entertainment and leisure. Problems arise when gambling is treated as a way to make money, recover losses, or escape personal difficulties.
Reputable and licensed casinos take responsible gambling seriously. They provide tools that allow players to manage their behaviour, set limits, take breaks, or step away completely if needed. Addressing gambling-related harm is an important priority across the industry.
Do You Have a Gambling Problem?
Addiction is not something to feel ashamed of. Many people experience periods where gambling begins to take up too much time, money, or emotional energy. Recognising the issue early makes it easier to regain control.
You may want to reflect on the following questions:
- Do you gamble when you should be doing something else?
- Have you tried to cut back but found it difficult?
- Do you feel restless or irritable when you are not gambling?
- Do you hide your gambling activity from family or friends?
- Has gambling affected your work, finances, or relationships?
- After losing money, do you return to gambling to try to break even?
- Have you needed financial help from others because of gambling losses?
Answering “yes” to one or more of these questions may indicate that gambling is becoming a problem.
Taking Control of Gambling Behaviour
The first step toward change is acknowledging the issue and talking about it. Support is available, and you do not have to deal with gambling problems alone. In New Zealand, there are dedicated services that provide confidential assistance to people affected by gambling.
Online casinos also offer built-in tools that help players stay in control. These include limits on deposits and playing time, as well as self-exclusion options that allow players to block access to their accounts for a chosen period.
Blocking Gambling Access with Software
In addition to casino-based tools, there are independent apps designed to help people reduce or stop gambling by blocking access to gambling websites and apps on their devices.
Gamban
Gamban is software that can be installed on mobile phones and computers to block thousands of gambling-related websites. It is designed to be difficult to remove, making it effective for those who want strong protection against temptation. Even if the app is deleted, blocking remains active for the duration of the subscription.
BetBlocker
BetBlocker is a free gambling-blocking tool available across multiple devices. It allows users to exclude themselves from gambling sites for a selected period and includes parental control features. The service does not collect personal information and operates anonymously.
Self-Exclusion in New Zealand
Under New Zealand law, players can choose to self-exclude from gambling services. Self-exclusion is a formal agreement between the player and the gambling operator. Once activated, it prevents access to gambling accounts for a set period, such as 3, 6, 12, or 24 months.
Self-exclusion cannot be cancelled early and remains in effect until the selected period ends. While it does not address the underlying causes of gambling behaviour, it provides valuable time and space to regain balance and perspective.
Getting External Support
Beyond casino tools, external support services are available to help individuals and families affected by gambling. These organisations offer counselling, advice, and practical support through phone, online, and in-person services.
New Zealand also has systems in place for self-exclusion from land-based casinos. All gambling venues are legally required to support self-exclusion requests and prevent access once an exclusion is in place.
Being Realistic About Gambling
Gambling has grown significantly in New Zealand over the years, with new formats and greater accessibility. While large wins are possible, gambling always involves chance and risk. High rewards come with the possibility of loss.
Keeping expectations realistic is essential. Gambling should remain about enjoyment, not chasing outcomes or relying on luck for financial success.
There is no shame in experiencing gambling-related difficulties. With the right information, tools, and support, it is possible to restore control and return gambling to its intended role as entertainment.
Here are Organizations that Provide Free Services to Gambling Addicts:
The Gambling Helpline – available Nationwide 24/7
Māori Gambling Helpline
0800 654 656
Vai Lelei Pasifika Gambling Helpline
0800 654 657
Gambling Debt Helpline
0800 654 658
Youth Gambling Helpline
0800 654 659
Asian Hotline (Problem Gambling Foundation)
0800 862 342
The Salvation Army Oasis Centres (Public Health and Intervention Services)
0800 53 00 00
Problem Gambling Foundation of New Zealand (Public Health and Intervention Services)
0800 664 262
Responsible Gambling – FAQs
Where can I get help for gambling problems?
Support services in New Zealand offer free and confidential help for individuals and families affected by gambling. Online casinos also provide self-exclusion and limit-setting tools.
How do I know if I am addicted to gambling?
Only you can assess your relationship with gambling, but asking yourself honest questions about control, spending, and impact on your life can help identify potential problems.
Are online pokies safe?
Reputable online casinos use certified random number generators and offer transparent return-to-player rates. Playing responsibly and choosing licensed platforms is essential.
