Responsible Gaming
Our Commitment to Safe Gaming
At Bernese.org.nz, we are committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Online pokies should be enjoyed as entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. If you choose to play, do so within your means and for fun.
Age Verification
Online gambling in New Zealand is only available to individuals aged 18 years and older. It is your responsibility to verify that you meet this legal requirement before accessing any gambling services. If you are under 18, please do not participate in online gaming.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognize any of the following signs in your own behavior or in someone you know, it may indicate a problem with gambling:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
- Hiding gambling activity from friends, family, or partners
- Neglecting work, school, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
- Using gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or other negative emotions
- Borrowing money or getting into debt to fund gambling
- Feeling anxious or irritable when unable to gamble
- Failed attempts to reduce or stop gambling
- Lying about the extent of gambling involvement
- Jeopardizing relationships, employment, or educational opportunities
Self-Help Tools
Most reputable online gaming operators offer the following responsible gaming tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to spend within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Restrict the total amount you are willing to lose over a set period
- Session Time Limits: Set automatic reminders or session cutoff times to prevent excessive play
- Reality Checks: Enable pop-up notifications during gameplay to help you stay aware of time and money spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming accounts
We encourage you to use these tools proactively as part of your responsible gaming strategy.
Support Organizations in New Zealand
If you or someone you know needs help with problem gambling, the following organizations provide confidential support and resources:
- Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF) – New Zealand's national organization dedicated to problem gambling support
Website: www.pgf.nz
Phone: 0800 664 262 (free call)
Email: [email protected] - Gambling Help Online – Confidential online counseling and support
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au - GamCare – Comprehensive support and information
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop – Multi-operator self-exclusion scheme
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
Take Action Today
If you believe you may have a problem with gambling, please reach out for help. Problem gambling is treatable, and support is available. You are not alone. Organizations like the Problem Gambling Foundation provide free, confidential assistance to individuals and their families affected by problem gambling.
Remember: Gaming should be fun and entertaining. If it stops being enjoyable or begins to cause harm, it's time to seek support.
Last updated: 2026. This information is provided for harm minimization purposes. Bernese.org.nz supports responsible gaming and complies with New Zealand gambling regulations.