Mindful play, and real support if you need it

A few quiet habits

• Keep play short

  Set a small window — half an hour is plenty. Stand up, stretch and step away when it ends.

• Notice how you feel

  Are you relaxing or chasing something? Free social play should feel light. If it doesn't, take a break.

• Keep it ad-free in your head

  There are no real prizes here. Don't let casino-style visuals tempt you toward real-money sites elsewhere.

• Talk it out

  If gambling is affecting you or someone close to you, the services below are confidential and free.

New Zealand support services

These services are independent of NZ Play Lounge. They support people affected by gambling harm in Aotearoa.

• Gambling Helpline Aotearoa

  Call 0800 654 655 or text 8006

  Free, confidential support for anyone in New Zealand affected by gambling — open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

  Visit website ↗

• Safer Gambling Aotearoa

  National information hub on safer gambling, with self-help tools, exclusion options and counselling pathways.

  Visit website ↗

• PGF Services

  0800 664 262

  Counselling, peer support and harm minimisation services for people experiencing harm from gambling.

  Visit website ↗

• Ministry of Health — Gambling harm

  Government information on gambling harm in New Zealand, including how to access publicly funded services.

  Visit website ↗

• Department of Internal Affairs — Gambling

  The regulator's overview of gambling in New Zealand, including the Gambling Act and consumer information.

  Visit website ↗