Responsible Gaming
Our Commitment to Safe Gaming
At designist.co.nz, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Online pokies should be enjoyed as entertainment only—never as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. If you choose to play, please do so within your means and for fun.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to gamble in Aotearoa New Zealand. By accessing any online casino or pokie site, you confirm that you meet the legal age requirement in your jurisdiction. We take age verification seriously and encourage all operators to implement robust checks.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, please seek help:
- Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding gambling activities or lying about the amount wagered
- Neglecting work, study, family, or social responsibilities due to gambling
- Using gambling to escape stress, anxiety, depression, or other emotions
- Borrowing money or using savings/credit to fund gambling
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when trying to reduce gambling
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Relationships suffering because of gambling habits
- Experiencing financial difficulties as a result of gambling
Self-Help Tools & Safer Gaming Features
Responsible online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Cap the amount you're willing to lose over a set period
- Session Time Limits: Receive warnings or automatic logout after a set gaming duration
- Reality Checks: Pop-up reminders showing your playing time and money spent
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from an operator for a defined period (days, weeks, months, or years)
- Account Cooling-Off: Temporary account suspension to take a break
Always use these tools when available, and choose operators committed to responsible gaming standards.
Support & Help Services in Aotearoa New Zealand
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, support is available:
New Zealand Services
- Problem Gambling Foundation (Aotearoa) – Free, confidential support and counselling
Phone: 0800 664 262 (24/7)
Website: www.pgf.nz - Gambling Helpline (Te Apārangi) – Free phone and online counselling
Phone: 0800 654 655
Website: www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz - Samaritans Aotearoa New Zealand – Emotional support and crisis intervention
Phone: 1737 (call or text, free 24/7)
Website: www.samaritans.org.nz
International Services
- GamCare (United Kingdom) – www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (United Kingdom) – 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 (United States) – www.ncpgambling.org
Take Action Today
If you're experiencing problems with gambling, please reach out for support now. There is no shame in asking for help—gambling addiction is a recognised condition, and recovery is possible. Contact one of the services above, speak to a trusted friend or family member, or visit your GP.
Remember: gambling should always be fun and within your control. If it isn't, help is available.