Responsible Gaming
Play Responsibly
Online pokies should be enjoyed as entertainment only. Gambling is never a reliable way to earn money or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and the outcome of every spin is determined by random chance.
At Goldstones, we're committed to promoting safe and responsible gaming practices. If you're accessing our site from New Zealand, please ensure you meet the legal age requirements and understand the risks involved.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to gamble online in New Zealand. Gambling while underage is illegal and can cause serious harm to young people.
All licensed online casinos are required to verify your age and identity before allowing you to play. If you're unsure about your eligibility, do not proceed.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Be aware of these warning signs:
- Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover what you've lost
- Hiding gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
- Feeling anxious or irritable when unable to gamble
- Using gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative feelings
- Neglecting work, study, family, or social responsibilities
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Experiencing mood swings related to wins and losses
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Lying to others about the extent of your gambling
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Limits
Most reputable online casinos offer built-in responsible gaming features:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose during a session
- Reality Checks: Receive pop-up reminders showing how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Session Limits: Set a maximum duration for each gaming session
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently ban yourself from accessing the casino
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if you need to stop gambling
Use these tools proactively—they're designed to help you stay in control.
Support & Help Services for New Zealand
If you're struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available:
New Zealand Support Services
-
Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF)
Phone: 0800 664 262 (free, confidential, 24/7)
Website: www.pgf.nz
Support for problem gambling and related issues -
Gamblers Anonymous NZ
Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz
Support groups across New Zealand -
Samaritans Aotearoa New Zealand
Phone: 0800 726 666
Emotional support and crisis assistance
International Support (if accessing from elsewhere)
- 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
Need Help?
If you think you may have a problem with gambling, reach out for help today. There is no shame in seeking support—problem gambling is a recognized condition and recovery is possible.
Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation on 0800 664 262 or visit www.pgf.nz for confidential advice and assistance.
Remember: Gambling should only ever be something you do for entertainment, never as a way to make money or solve problems.