Responsible Gaming
Online casino games are entertainment, not a way to make money. Every pokie, table game and live game has a built-in house edge, so over time the casino always comes out ahead. This page explains how to keep gambling under control, what warning signs to look for and where to get free help in New Zealand.
1. Play only if you are 18 or over
Online casinos are for adults only. Licensed operators check your age and identity, and accounts opened by under-18s are closed and any winnings are voided. If children use your devices, keep your casino logins private and use parental control software.
2. Simple rules for safer play
- Set a budget before you start, and only use money you can afford to lose.
- Decide in advance how long you will play and take regular breaks.
- Never chase losses by increasing your bets to win back what you lost.
- Do not gamble when you are stressed, upset or under the influence of alcohol.
- Keep gambling separate from money for rent, bills and other essentials.
- Treat any win as a bonus, not as income.
3. Warning signs
Gambling may be becoming a problem if you:
- spend more time or money on gambling than you planned;
- borrow money or sell things to gamble;
- hide your gambling from family or friends;
- feel anxious or irritable when you try to cut down;
- gamble to escape problems or difficult feelings.
If several of these sound familiar, it is a good time to pause and talk to someone.
4. Tools at Boo Casino
Boo Casino lets you control your play from your account settings or through customer support:
- Deposit limits: cap how much you can deposit per day, week or month.
- Time-out: take a short break from your account.
- Self-exclusion: close access to your account for a longer period.
Lowering a limit usually takes effect straight away, while raising it or ending a self-exclusion takes time on purpose.
5. Where to get help in New Zealand
- Gambling Helpline: 0800 654 655, or text 8006. Free, confidential and available 24/7.
- Problem Gambling Foundation: 0800 664 262, free counselling for gamblers and their families.
You can also talk to your GP. Support is available for people who gamble and for family members affected by someone else’s gambling.