Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment

At HugAPug, we believe that online pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While gaming can be fun and exciting, it's important to approach it responsibly and within your means.

Set a budget you can afford to lose, play for entertainment, and never gamble with money you need for essentials like rent, bills, or food.

Age Verification

Online pokies in New Zealand are strictly for players aged 18 years and over. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet the legal age requirement in your jurisdiction.

If you are under 18, you must not access or use our gaming services. By using HugAPug, you confirm that you are at least 18 years of age.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

If you recognize any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may indicate a gambling problem:

• Spending more money or time gaming than intended
• Chasing losses by continuing to gamble to recover money lost
• Hiding gambling activities or the amount of money spent from family or friends
• Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, depression, or other negative emotions
• Borrowing money to finance gambling or pay off gambling debts
• Neglecting work, studies, or personal relationships due to gambling
• Experiencing mood changes, anxiety, or irritability when unable to gamble
• Failed attempts to reduce or stop gambling
• Lying about the extent of your gambling activities
• Loss of interest in hobbies or activities you once enjoyed

Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features

Most online gaming platforms offer tools to help you stay in control. Consider using:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Restrict the maximum amount you're willing to lose during a gaming session
• Time Limits: Set reminders or automatic session timeouts to limit gaming duration
• Reality Checks: Enable pop-up notifications that remind you how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently close your account if you feel you need a break from gaming

These tools are designed to empower you to maintain control of your gaming habits.

Support Organizations & Resources

If you or someone you know needs help with problem gambling, these organizations provide free, confidential support:

New Zealand

• Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF)
  Free counselling, support groups, and resources for people affected by gambling problems
  Website: www.pgf.nz
  Helpline: 0800 664 262 (free call)
• Gambling Helpline
  24/7 support and confidential counselling
  Freephone: 0800 654 655
  Website: www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz

International Resources

• Australia – Gambling Help Online
  www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• United Kingdom – GamCare
  www.gamcare.org.uk
• United Kingdom – GamStop (Self-Exclusion Scheme)
  www.gamstop.co.uk
• Canada – Responsible Gambling Council
  www.responsiblegambling.org
• United States – National Council on Problem Gambling
  www.ncpgambling.org

Take Action Today

If you're struggling with gambling, remember that help is available and support is just a phone call away. There is no shame in seeking assistance.

Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation (0800 664 262) or the Gambling Helpline (0800 654 655) today for free, confidential support.

Your wellbeing is important to us. Please gamble responsibly and within your limits.