Click here to exit preview mode.
Close up of a man and woman at the beach smiling at the camera

Nau mai. Welcome.

Safer Gambling Aotearoa is on a mission to minimise gambling harm within our communities. So, whether you choose to gamble or know someone who does, we’re here to offer our guidance and support, with manaaki and alofa.

services near you
Safer Gambling Aotearoa

Free 24/7 helpline 0800 654 655 or free text 8006. Find free support near you.

Need help now?
If you need help to get back on track, or just have questions, we're here to talk it out.

Safer gambling

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem or you're worried that one might be developing, we have a few tips to bring it into line.

Two people having a conversation about their gambling stories

Sharing and talking

Reaching out to friends or whānau you trust is a good first step if you’re worried about gambling. Kōrero about your feelings and discuss what you can do about it.

If you’re worried about your gambling, the best thing you can do is talk to someone you know and trust. Your friends and whānau may already be worried that something is troubling you and may even know it's gambling.

Find out more
A man sitting with a drink at a gambling casino

Staying In Control

If you or someone you know is struggling to stay in control, these tips for safer gambling may help.

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem or you're worried one might be developing, we have a few great tips to bring it into line. Find a plan that works for you using our tips below, then share your plan with trusted whānau and friends to help you stay on track.

Find out more
A family at a table using a laptop to examine their gambling expenses

How Much Are You Spending?

People who gamble often lose track of how much they’re spending. Get the breakdown on how quickly gambling spend can add up.

Often gamblers have no idea how much they’re spending; sometimes when it’s spent in smaller amounts it doesn’t feel like much, but when you add it together it’s actually a lot.

Find out more

Know your odds

You might be hoping that a big win could make a difference for you and your family but your chances of winning while gambling are a lot lower than you might think. Knowing your odds of winning can really put your chances into perspective.

Close up of two people playing Russian Roulette with a dealer in the background

Guide to casino games

Casinos are built to be exciting and entertaining, but each casino game is designed so players are disadvantaged. Get some tips on how to stay safe.

Step inside a casino and the atmosphere tingles with excitement. While it’s supposed to be a form of entertainment, it can become harmful. You’re likely to spend more than you win, so it should never be counted on as a way to make money.

Find out more
Three women sitting at a table discussing how lotto works

How does the Lotto draw work?

Many New Zealanders get lured into daydreams, but the odds of winning lotto are against us. Learn more about the reality, in numbers.

Before you check your Lotto results, it's easy to daydream about extended holidays and a sports car for every member of the whānau. But what are your true odds of winning Lotto first division or Powerball?

Find out more
Close up of two people on their smart phones

Gaming vs gambling

The line between gaming and gambling online can be blurry; particularly for the younger generation. Keep your whānau safe by looking out for common traps.

The line between gaming and online gambling is definitely blurry! "Free-to-play" games, apps and websites offering simulated gambling can be entertaining, but despite their name they could still cost you time and money.

Find out more

How much is too much to spend on gambling?

The amount you can safely spend on gambling comes down to your circumstances and what amount you’re able to lose, without it affecting your ability to pay for other things. For some people, even a few dollars may mean they (or others) have to go without weekly essentials. Ask yourself – is your gambling just for fun?

Help and support

There’s absolutely no shame in asking for help. In fact, it shows strength and determination to take control.

Two young people standing outside a gambling support service location

Face to face

Kānohi ki te kānohi/face to face gambling support is available for those who find it helpful to talk about gambling with someone outside their situation. Learn more about what to expect.

It can often be a huge relief to chat to someone who’s outside of your situation, and doing it face to face is a great way to get more personal support.

Find out more
A man and woman attending a gambling support session

Services near you

Free and confidential support is available throughout the country. View the list or use our interactive map to find your local gambling support service.

Wherever you are in the country, free and confidential support for your gambling is never far away. Getting some help is just a text, phone call, or Zoom away...

Find out more
Two women using a pokie machine and laughing together

Test your gambling

Find out if your gambling or the gambling of someone you care about is sweet as or if it is starting to become a problem.

Find out more