Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
At plainpacks.org.nz, we believe online pokies and casino games should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. Gambling is never a reliable way to earn money or solve financial problems. Play for fun, within your means, and always gamble responsibly.
Age Verification & Legal Requirements
Online gaming in New Zealand is strictly for adults aged 18 years and over. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet the legal age requirement in your jurisdiction before participating in any gambling activities. We do not knowingly accept players under the legal age and reserve the right to verify age and close accounts that breach this requirement.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognise any of these warning signs in yourself or someone you know, please seek help:
- Gambling with money you cannot afford to lose
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
- Hiding gambling activity from family, friends, or financial advisors
- Neglecting work, study, family, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems, stress, or difficult emotions
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Experiencing mood changes or irritability when unable to gamble
- Lying about the extent of your gambling involvement
Self-Help Tools & Player Protections
Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control of your gaming:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose before your account is restricted
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic pop-up reminders showing how long you've been playing and how much you've wagered
- Time-Out/Cool-Off Period: Take a break from gambling for a set period (hours to weeks) while maintaining access to your account
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from gambling for a longer period (typically 6 months to permanently) when you feel you need to stop
Use these tools proactively. They are designed to protect your wellbeing and help maintain gambling as entertainment.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you're struggling with gambling, professional help is available. Here are trusted organisations that can provide support:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF) - Free, confidential support and counselling
www.pgf.nz
Phone: 0800 664 262 (free call) - Gambling Helpline - 24/7 free helpline and online chat
Phone: 0800 006 886
Australia
- Gambling Help Online - Counselling and support services
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
United Kingdom
- GamCare - Free counselling and support
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop - National self-exclusion scheme
www.gamstop.co.uk
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council - Information and resources
www.responsiblegambling.org
United States
- National Council on Problem Gambling - Helpline and resources
www.ncpgambling.org
Phone: 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)
If You Need Help
Don't wait—reach out today. Problem gambling is a treatable condition, and help is available. Contact one of the support organisations listed above to speak with a trained counsellor who can provide confidential assistance.
Your health and wellbeing are more important than any game. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, please seek professional help immediately.