Gambling should be fun and affordable — never a way to make money, pay bills or cope with stress. This page explains how to stay in control and where to get free, confidential help in New Zealand.
Set Limits Before You Play
- Deposit limits — cap what you can put in daily, weekly or monthly. Every licensed site offers this.
- Loss & wager limits — set a ceiling on losses and total stakes.
- Reality checks — on-screen reminders of time and money spent.
- Time-outs — short cooling-off breaks (24 hours to 6 weeks).
- Self-exclusion — block yourself from a site for months or years when you need a real stop.
Warning Signs of Gambling Harm
Chasing losses; gambling more to feel the same buzz; borrowing or lying to gamble; betting money meant for rent, food or bills; feeling anxious, guilty or unable to stop. If any of these sound familiar, reach out today — help works, and it's free.
Free Help in New Zealand (24/7)
- Gambling Helpline Aotearoa — call 0800 654 655, text 8006, or live-chat at gamblinghelpline.co.nz. Free, confidential, 24/7.
- Problem Gambling Foundation of New Zealand (PGF) — free counselling: pgf.nz.
- Safer Gambling Aotearoa — safergambling.org.nz.
- Lifeline Aotearoa — call 0800 543 354 or text 4357 (HELP).
- Health line — free advice on 0800 611 116.
Tools That Block Gambling
Self-exclusion software such as Gamban and BetBlocker can block gambling sites across your devices. Your bank may also let you block gambling transactions on your cards.
Protecting Others
You must be 18+ to gamble online in New Zealand (20+ for land-based casinos). Keep accounts and devices secure so minors can't access them. If you're worried about someone else, the Gambling Helpline supports family and whānau too.