Set a budget before you play
Decide how much you are comfortable losing before you start — not after. Treat it as the cost of entertainment, not an investment. All NZ-licensed casinos must offer deposit limits. Set one that reflects your budget, not your ambition.
Use deposit and loss limits
NZ-licensed casinos are required to offer daily, weekly, and monthly deposit limits. You can also set loss limits and session time limits. These tools are in your account settings. Setting them when you are calm and not playing is more effective than relying on willpower in the moment.
Take breaks with reality checks
Reality check notifications remind you how long you have been playing and how much you have spent. Enable them in your account settings. When a notification appears, stop and assess — are you still playing for enjoyment, or chasing losses?
Self-exclusion
If you feel gambling is becoming a problem, self-exclusion lets you block yourself from all NZ-licensed casinos via the national self-exclusion register administered by the Problem Gambling Foundation. Self-exclusion is free, confidential, and can be set for periods from six months to permanently.
Where to get help
The Problem Gambling Foundation of New Zealand offers free, confidential support: call 0800 664 262 or text 8006, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Gambling Helpline: 0800 654 655. If you are in immediate distress, contact Lifeline on 0800 543 354.