Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment

At Drain Direct, we believe online pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. Gambling is never a reliable way to earn money or solve financial problems. Please gamble only with money you can afford to lose and set strict limits on your play.

Age Verification

You must be at least 18 years of age to gamble in New Zealand. We are committed to preventing underage gambling. If you are under 18, please do not access our gaming services.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

If you recognize any of the following warning signs, you may be developing a gambling problem:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
• Hiding your gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
• Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
• Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
• Neglecting work, school, family, or personal relationships due to gambling
• Lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
• Unable to cut down or stop gambling despite wanting to
• Using gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or other negative emotions

Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features

Most online casinos and pokie platforms offer tools to help you gamble responsibly:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific period
• Loss Limits: Restrict the maximum losses you're willing to accept
• Session Limits: Set time limits for your gaming sessions
• Reality Checks: Receive reminders during play about how long and how much you've been gambling
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling services

Take advantage of these tools to maintain control over your gambling habits.

Support & Help Services in New Zealand

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available:

New Zealand Services:

• Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF) – Free and confidential support
  Phone: 0800 664 262 | Website: www.pgf.nz
• Gamblers Anonymous (Aotearoa) – Support groups across New Zealand
  Phone: 0800 688 266 | Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz
• 1737 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline – Free call or text for emotional support
  Phone: Call or text 1737 (24/7)

International Services:

• 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 (US) – www.ncpgambling.org

If You Need Help

Problem gambling is a serious issue that affects individuals and families. If you are struggling with gambling, please reach out for help today. There is no shame in seeking support, and professional assistance is available.

Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation on 0800 664 262 (free, confidential, 24/7) or visit www.pgf.nz for resources and support.