Stay in control
- Set a deposit limit before you play, and set it at the operator level so it's enforced for you.
- Never chase losses — increasing stakes to win back a loss is the fastest way to a bigger one.
- Treat stakes as spent the moment you deposit. A win is a bonus, not income.
- Take time-outs. Every site we list offers cool-off periods from 24 hours upward.
- Never gamble to escape stress, or while using alcohol or in debt.
Tools every operator offers
| Tool | What it does |
|---|---|
| Deposit limits | Cap how much you can deposit per day, week or month. |
| Loss & wager limits | Cap total losses or total stakes over a period. |
| Time-outs | Lock your account for 24 hours to 6 weeks. |
| Self-exclusion | Close your account for 6 months to permanently. |
| Reality checks | On-screen reminders of time and money spent. |
Free help in New Zealand
- Gambling Helpline NZ — 0800 654 655, free and confidential, 24/7. Text 8006.
- Problem Gambling Foundation NZ — pgf.nz, free face-to-face and online counselling.
- Health NZ – Te Whatu Ora gambling harm services, nationwide.
- Lifeline Aotearoa — 0800 543 354 for immediate distress.
Are you worried about your gambling?
If you answer yes to any of these, consider reaching out: Do you gamble more than you planned? Have you lied about how much you gamble? Have you borrowed money or missed bills to gamble? Help is free, and reaching out early makes it easier.
You must be 18 or older to gamble in New Zealand.