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Responsible Gambling NZ [October 2026]: Help & Limits
Gambling should be entertainment, not income. Most people play without harm — but for some it stops being fun, and the tools and help below exist for exactly that moment.
Free help in New Zealand
- Gambling Helpline NZ — 0800 654 655 (24/7, free, confidential; text 8006)
- Problem Gambling Foundation NZ — 0800 664 262
- Asian Family Services — 0800 862 342 · Salvation Army Oasis — 0800 530 000
Stay in control
- Set a deposit limit before you start, and treat it as fixed.
- Never chase losses — the odds don't change because you're behind.
- Only gamble money you can afford to lose; never borrow to bet.
- Take regular breaks and don't gamble to escape stress or low mood.
- Use operator tools: deposit/loss limits, reality checks, time-outs, self-exclusion.
Warning signs
Gambling more than you planned, hiding it from people close to you, betting to win back losses, or feeling anxious about your gambling are all signs it's time to reach out. You don't have to hit a crisis to call the helpline — earlier is better.
Keeping it away from under-18s
Online gambling is strictly 18+. Keep your account details private and consider device-level parental controls and blocking software (such as Gamban or GamBlock) if you share devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I get help in New Zealand right now?
Call the free, confidential Gambling Helpline NZ on 0800 654 655 (or text 8006), 24 hours a day. The Problem Gambling Foundation is on 0800 664 262. Both offer support to gamblers and to family and friends.
How do I set a deposit limit?
Every reputable operator has deposit, loss and session limits in the account/responsible-gambling settings. Set them before you play, not after a losing session. Limits that reduce take effect immediately; increases usually have a cooling-off delay.
What is self-exclusion?
Self-exclusion blocks you from an operator for a period you choose — from days to permanently. Most sites offer it in account settings; if you can't find it, contact support and ask to self-exclude.