Start with boundaries you can keep
If you choose to gamble, decide on a spending limit and a stopping time before you start. Use money you can afford to lose without affecting essentials. Do not borrow to play, chase losses or treat gambling as income. Choosing not to gamble is always an option.
Notice when it stops feeling manageable
Spending more than intended, hiding play, repeatedly trying to win back losses or finding it hard to stop are reasons to pause and seek support. You do not need to wait for a crisis to call the Gambling Helpline NZ. Friends and family can also ask for help when someone else’s gambling affects them.
Gambling Helpline NZ and local support
- Gambling Helpline NZ — Call 0800 654 655 or free text 8006 for gambling support.
- Safer Gambling Aotearoa — Practical information and local support services.
Use more than one practical tool
Consider a time-out, account limits, self-exclusion, device blocking tools and any gambling-block feature your bank offers. Check the scope of each tool: one operator’s exclusion may not cover another, and an overseas scheme may not apply locally. Ask the support service which combination fits your circumstances.
Age and location
Sports betting accounts are for adults aged 18 or over; entry to land-based casinos is restricted to people aged 20 or over. Online casino rules are separate and are changing.
Independent support, accurate labels
Gambling Therapy provides international online support. UK-focused resources are explained on our resources page; they are not presented as a local national self-exclusion scheme. Vegasoo is an information site, not a counselling or emergency service. For the Gambling Helpline NZ, call 0800 654 655.
