Responsible Gaming

Introduction

At homeretail.co.nz, we believe online pokies should be enjoyed as entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Gambling should never be seen as a source of income. Always gamble within your means and only with money you can afford to lose.

Age Verification

You must be at least 18 years of age to access and use online pokies in New Zealand. We are committed to preventing underage gambling and verify the age of all players. If you are under 18, please do not attempt to register or gamble on our platform.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may indicate a problem with gambling:

• Regularly chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
• Hiding gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
• Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
• Neglecting work, school, or personal relationships due to gambling
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when not gambling
• Borrowing money to gamble or gambling with money needed for essentials
• Lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
• Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop gambling
• Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions

If you experience any of these warning signs, please seek help immediately.

Self-Help Tools

Most reputable online gaming platforms offer tools to help you manage your gambling responsibly:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Restrict the amount you're willing to lose during a gaming session
• Reality Checks: Receive reminders about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
• Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from your account for a period of time, preventing access to your gaming account
• Session Time Limits: Set automatic time limits for your gaming sessions

Contact our support team to activate any of these tools on your account.

Support Organizations in New Zealand

If you or someone you know needs help with problem gambling, the following organisations provide free, confidential support:

• Problem Gambling Foundation (Aotearoa)
  Free confidential helpline and counselling services for people affected by gambling problems
  Phone: 0800 664 262
  Website: www.problemgambling.nz
• Gamblers Anonymous
  Support meetings and peer support for those struggling with gambling addiction
  Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz
• Samaritans
  24/7 emotional support and crisis assistance
  Phone: 1300 (free call)
  Website: www.samaritans.org.nz

International Support Resources

Additional resources are available internationally:

• GamCare (United Kingdom)
• GamStop (United Kingdom – National Self-Exclusion Scheme)
• Gambling Help Online (Australia)
• Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
• National Council on Problem Gambling (United States)

Take Action Today

If you believe you have a problem with gambling, please seek help now. Problem gambling is treatable, and support is available. Reach out to one of the organisations listed above – they are confidential, free, and staffed by trained professionals who understand what you're going through.

Remember: it's never too late to ask for help. Your wellbeing is what matters most.