Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. There is no guaranteed way to win, and the house always has a mathematical advantage. Please gamble responsibly and within your means.
Age Verification
By accessing Burns Lodge and participating in online pokies, you confirm that you are:
- At least 18 years of age (or the legal gambling age in your jurisdiction)
- Legally permitted to gamble in New Zealand
- Not prohibited by law from participating in gambling activities
Burns Lodge does not permit access to anyone under the legal gambling age.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs, you may be developing a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by gambling with more money to try to recover what you've lost
- Lying to friends, family, or others about the amount of time or money you spend gambling
- Neglecting work, study, family, or social responsibilities due to gambling
- Gambling with money intended for bills, rent, or essential expenses
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when trying to reduce or stop gambling
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling activities
- Using gambling as a way to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
- Gambling for longer periods or with larger amounts than originally intended
- Failed attempts to cut down or control gambling
- Preoccupation with gambling, even when not actively playing
If you experience any of these warning signs, please seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Many online gambling operators offer tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount of money you can deposit within a specific period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Cap the amount of money you're willing to lose during a gaming session
- Time Limits: Set reminders or automatic session timeouts to manage how long you play
- Reality Checks: Enable pop-up reminders during play to prompt reflection on time and money spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing gambling services
Contact your gambling operator to activate these tools, or speak with support services listed below.
Support Organisations in New Zealand & Beyond
New Zealand Support Services
- Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF)
Free, confidential support and counselling
Helpline: 0800 664 262
Website: www.pgf.nz - Gambling Helpline
24/7 free helpline service
Phone: 0800 654 655
Text: 8393 - Samaritans New Zealand
Emotional support and counselling
Phone: 1800 726 666 (toll-free)
International Support Services
- GamCare (United Kingdom)
www.gamcare.org.uk
Helpline: 0808 8020 133 - GamStop (United Kingdom)
www.gamstop.co.uk
National self-exclusion register - Gambling Help Online (Australia)
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
www.responsiblegambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling (United States)
www.ncpgambling.org
1-800-522-4700
If You Need Help
If you believe you have a gambling problem, please seek help immediately. There is no shame in reaching out—professional support is available and confidential.
Contact one of the organisations listed above, speak with a trusted friend or family member, or reach out to your GP for a referral to specialist services.
Remember: Recovery is possible, and help is always available.