Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Fun, Not a Financial Solution

Online pokies should be enjoyed as entertainment only. They are games of chance designed for fun, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical advantage. Please only gamble with money you can afford to lose.

Age Verification

You must be 18 years of age or older to access and use online pokies in New Zealand. By using cro.net.nz, you confirm that you meet this legal age requirement. Gambling is not suitable for minors and can cause serious harm to young people.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

If you recognize any of these behaviours in yourself or someone you know, problem gambling may be developing:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
• Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
• Hiding gambling activity or lying about how much you gamble
• Neglecting family, work, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
• Borrowing money or using credit to fund gambling
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
• Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop gambling
• Using gambling to escape problems or relieve negative emotions
• Gambling with increasingly larger amounts to get the same excitement
• Experiencing relationship conflict over gambling habits

Self-Help Tools & Limits

Responsible gambling operators provide tools to help you maintain control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose in a session or time period
• Reality Checks: Receive reminders about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
• Session Time Limits: Automatically end your session after a set duration
• Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from gambling for a period you choose
• Account Cooling Off: Temporarily suspend your account to take a break

Most licensed NZ online pokies operators offer these tools. Always check your operator's responsible gambling page for available options.

Support Organizations & Resources

If you're struggling with gambling, help is available. Here are organizations that can provide support:

New Zealand

• Gambling Helpline NZ — Free, confidential support available 24/7
  0800 352 352 or visit www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
• Problem Gambling Foundation — Treatment and support services
  www.pgf.nz

International Resources

• GamCare (UK) — www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop (UK) — National self-exclusion scheme — www.gamstop.co.uk
• Gambling Help Online (Australia) — www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) — www.responsiblegambling.org
• National Council on Problem Gambling (USA) — www.ncpgambling.org

Need Help?

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, please reach out for help today. Support is free, confidential, and available in New Zealand through the Gambling Helpline at 0800 352 352.

Your wellbeing is important. Taking action early can prevent serious harm to your finances, relationships, and mental health.