Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment

At Gardenzmatcher, we believe online pokies should be enjoyed as entertainment only—never as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Gambling always carries risk, and the house has a mathematical advantage. Play only with money you can afford to lose, and never gamble to recover losses.

Age Verification

Online gambling in New Zealand is only legal for players aged 18 years and older. By accessing any online pokie site, you confirm that you meet this legal requirement. If you are under 18, please do not participate in gambling activities.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

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

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
• Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
• Hiding gambling activity or lying about the amount spent
• Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when unable to gamble
• Neglecting work, study, family, or social relationships due to gambling
• Borrowing money or using credit to fund gambling
• Failed attempts to reduce or stop gambling
• Using gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or depression

Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features

Most reputable online pokie sites offer tools to help you stay in control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Restrict the amount you can lose during a gaming session
• Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders of how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
• Session Limits: Automatically stop play after a set duration
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling for a period you choose
• Account Closure: Permanently close your account if you wish to stop gambling entirely

Use these tools proactively. They are designed to protect you and help maintain responsible gaming habits.

Support Organisations & Helplines

If you're concerned about your gambling or need support, help is available:

New Zealand

• Gambling Helpline (NZ): 0800 352 352 (24/7, free and confidential)
• Problem Gambling Foundation: www.pgf.nz

International Resources

• GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop (UK Self-Exclusion): 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

Take Action Today

If you think you may have a gambling problem, reach out for help now. Problem gambling is treatable, and support is available 24/7. You don't have to face this alone.

Contact the Gambling Helpline (NZ) on 0800 352 352 or visit the Problem Gambling Foundation to speak with trained counsellors who understand what you're going through.

Remember: gambling should always be fun and within your means. If it isn't, it's time to get help.