Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment

At arthousecinema.co.nz, we believe online pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While gaming can be fun and exciting, it's important to approach it responsibly and within your means.

Remember: the house always has a mathematical advantage. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose.

Age Verification

Online pokies in New Zealand are strictly regulated. You must be 18 years of age or older to participate. This is a legal requirement that protects young people from the risks of gambling.

If you're under 18, please do not access gaming platforms. If you're concerned about a young person's gambling, contact the organisations listed below.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Be aware of these common signs that gambling may be becoming a problem:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to try to recover money lost
• Hiding gambling activity or lying about how much time and money you spend
• Gambling with money meant for bills, rent, or other essential expenses
• Neglecting work, family, or social relationships due to gambling
• Feeling anxious or irritable when you're not gambling
• Needing to gamble with larger amounts to achieve the same excitement
• Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
• Using gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
• Borrowing money or getting into debt to fund gambling
• Losing track of time while gambling

If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, help is available.

Self-Help Tools & Controls

Most reputable gaming platforms offer built-in tools to help you gamble responsibly:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit in a day, week, or month
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose before stopping
• Reality Checks: Receive notifications at regular intervals reminding you how long you've been gaming and how much you've spent
• Session Time Limits: Set automatic session cutoffs to prevent extended gambling periods
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming platforms
• Account Cooling Off: Take a break from your account for a set period

Use these tools proactively. They're designed to help you maintain control.

Support & Help Organisations

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, support is available:

New Zealand

• Gambling Helpline NZ: 0800 654 655 (24/7, free, confidential) — www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
• Problem Gambling Foundation: www.pgf.nz
• Samaritans NZ: 1800 726 666 (for crisis support)

International Support (for reference)

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

If You Need Help

If gambling is affecting your life, your finances, your relationships, or your mental health, please reach out for support today.

There is no shame in asking for help. Problem gambling is a recognised condition, and professional support is available and effective.

Contact the Gambling Helpline NZ on 0800 654 655 — it's free, confidential, and available 24/7.

You can also speak to your GP, a counsellor, or one of the organisations listed above.