Responsible Gaming

Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income

At Three Islands Magazine, we believe online pokies should be enjoyed as entertainment only. Gambling is never a reliable way to earn money or solve financial problems. Always gamble within your means and only with money you can afford to lose.

Age Verification

Online pokies in New Zealand are only available to players aged 18 years and over. If you are under 18, please do not attempt to register with any online gaming provider. Licensed operators are required to verify your age before allowing access to gambling services.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

If any of the following apply to you, please seek help immediately:

• Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
• Hiding gambling activity or lying about the amount you gamble
• Feeling anxious or irritable when unable to gamble
• Neglecting family, work, or social responsibilities due to gambling
• Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
• Borrowing money to fund gambling
• Continuing to gamble despite knowing the harm it causes
• Friends or family expressing concern about your gambling

Self-Help Tools Available

Responsible gaming operators provide tools to help you maintain control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period
• Loss Limits: Restrict the maximum amount you can lose during a session or time period
• Session Limits: Set automatic reminders or cut-offs for gambling sessions
• Reality Checks: Receive periodic notifications during gameplay to remind you of time and money spent
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling accounts
• Account Pause: Take a break from gambling for a set period

Use these tools to maintain healthy gambling habits. All licensed New Zealand operators must offer these features.

Support Organizations for New Zealand

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, reach out to these organisations:

New Zealand

• Gambling Helpline (NZ) — Free, confidential support
  Phone: 0800 654 655
  Online: www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
• Problem Gambling Foundation
  Phone: 09 360 3881
  Online: www.pgf.nz
• Samaritans NZ — Emotional support
  Phone: 1737 (call or text, free 24/7)

International Support

• GamCare (UK) — www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop (UK) — www.gamstop.co.uk
• Gambling Help Online (Australia) — www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) — www.responsiblegambling.org
• National Council on Problem Gambling (US) — www.ncpgambling.org

Need Help?

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, please reach out for help today. There is no shame in seeking support — trained counselors are available and ready to assist.

Call the Gambling Helpline NZ on 0800 654 655 or contact any of the organisations listed above. Help is available 24/7, and all conversations are confidential.

Remember: You are not alone, and recovery is possible.