Responsible gambling
Gambling should be fun. If it stops being fun, help is free, confidential and available right now.
Last updated 2026-10-26
Get help now — free and confidential
Gambling Helpline New Zealand: call 0800 654 655 or text 8006, 24 hours a day. Online chat at gamblinghelpline.co.nz.
Support services in New Zealand
| Service | What they offer | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Gambling Helpline NZ | 24/7 phone, text and web chat support | 0800 654 655 · text 8006 |
| Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF) | Free counselling and support, in person and online | pgf.nz |
| Safer Gambling Aotearoa | Information and harm-minimisation resources | 0800 654 655 |
| Mapu Maia | Pasifika-focused gambling-harm support | mapumaia.nz |
| Health line / emergency | If you are in crisis, call 111 or Lifeline 0800 543 354 | 111 · 0800 543 354 |
Stay in control
- Set a deposit limit before you play — most sites let you cap daily, weekly or monthly deposits.
- Set a time limit and take breaks. Use reality-check reminders if the site offers them.
- Never chase losses. The odds do not change because you are behind.
- Only gamble money you can afford to lose — never rent, bills or borrowed funds.
- Use self-exclusion if you need a hard stop. Reputable sites let you lock yourself out for a set period or permanently.
Know the signs of harm
Gambling may be becoming a problem if you are spending more than you can afford, chasing losses, borrowing to gamble, hiding it from people close to you, or feeling anxious or low about it. None of this means you are stuck — reaching out early makes a difference, and the services above are there for exactly this.
Keeping it safe for others
You must be 18 or older to gamble in New Zealand. If someone you know is affected by gambling, the Gambling Helpline supports family and whānau too, not just the person gambling.