Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Fun, Not a Financial Solution
At Cook for Tasman, we believe online pokies should be enjoyed as entertainment only. Gambling should never be viewed as a way to make money, pay bills, or solve financial problems. Please play responsibly and within your means.
Age Verification
Online gambling in New Zealand is only legal for players aged 18 years and older. If you are under the legal gambling age, please do not participate in online pokies or any form of gambling. We take age verification seriously and reserve the right to verify your identity at any time.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, problem gambling may be developing:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding your gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
- Gambling with money needed for essentials (rent, food, bills)
- Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
- Feeling anxious or irritable when unable to gamble
- Neglecting work, study, or personal relationships due to gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble or to cover gambling debts
- Lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
- Failed attempts to reduce or control gambling
- Using gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or depression
If you recognise these signs, it's important to seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Many online gambling platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose in a day, week, or month
- Reality Checks: Receive notifications during gaming sessions to remind you how long you've been playing
- Time-Out: Take a temporary break from gambling for hours or days
- Self-Exclusion: Exclude yourself from gambling for a longer period (weeks, months, or years)
- Account Closure: Permanently close your gambling account
We encourage you to use these tools to maintain healthy gambling habits.
Support & Help Organizations
If you're struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available. The following organisations provide confidential support:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation NZ — Free counselling and support services
Phone: 0800 664 262 (free, 24/7)
Website: www.pgfnz.org.nz - Gambling Helpline
Phone: 0800 352 352 (free, confidential)
Text: 8681
Website: www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
International Support
- Australia: Gambling Help Online — www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- United Kingdom: GamCare — www.gamcare.org.uk
- United Kingdom: GamStop (Self-exclusion scheme) — www.gamstop.co.uk
- Canada: Responsible Gambling Council — www.responsiblegambling.org
- United States: National Council on Problem Gambling — www.ncpgambling.org
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
Problem gambling is a serious issue that can affect your mental health, finances, and relationships. You are not alone. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, please contact one of the support organisations listed above. They provide free, confidential, and non-judgmental assistance.
Remember: Your wellbeing is more important than any game.