Feeling the Pinch? How to Get Help with Gambling in Aotearoa

February 8, 2026 8:15 pm Published by justyoga_f60tk1

Kia Ora, Let’s Talk About Gambling

Hey there, welcome! If you’re new to the world of online gambling, or even if you’ve been playing for a while, it’s super important to know how to get help if things ever feel a bit… much. Gambling should be fun, a bit of a thrill, maybe even a way to try for some easy wins. But sometimes, it can get tricky. This article is all about how to access counselling and support services in New Zealand if you’re finding gambling is impacting your life, or the lives of people you care about.

Recognising the Signs: Is Gambling Becoming a Problem?

It’s not always easy to tell when gambling is moving from a bit of fun to something more serious. Here are some things to look out for. Think about whether you’re experiencing any of these:

Chasing Losses: Do you feel the need to gamble more and more to try and win back what you’ve lost?
Spending More Than You Can Afford: Are you gambling with money you need for bills, rent, or other essentials?
Preoccupation: Are you constantly thinking about gambling, planning your next bet, or reliving past gambling experiences?
Withdrawal Symptoms: Do you feel irritable, restless, or anxious when you try to cut back on gambling?
Lying: Are you hiding your gambling from friends, family, or your partner?
Relationship Issues: Is gambling causing problems in your relationships?
Borrowing Money: Are you borrowing money to gamble, or to pay off gambling debts?

If you’re noticing any of these signs, it’s a good idea to reach out for help. There’s no shame in it; it’s a sign of strength to recognise you need support.

Where to Find Help in Aotearoa: Your Guide to Support Services

New Zealand has a fantastic network of services designed to help people with gambling issues. Here’s a breakdown of the main avenues you can explore:

1. Problem Gambling Foundation of New Zealand

This is a great starting point. The Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF) offers a wide range of services, including:

Free Counselling: They provide free, confidential counselling services, both in-person and online. You can talk to a trained professional about your gambling habits and develop strategies to manage them.
Helpline: They have a 24/7 helpline (0800 664 262) where you can talk to someone immediately. This is a great option if you need to talk to someone right now.
Education and Prevention: The PGF also runs educational programs and campaigns to raise awareness about problem gambling and promote responsible gambling practices.
Support Groups: They can connect you with support groups where you can share your experiences and learn from others who understand what you’re going through.

You can find more information on their website and locate services near you.

2. Te Hiringa Hauora (Health Promotion Agency)

Te Hiringa Hauora works to improve the health and wellbeing of New Zealanders. They provide information and resources related to gambling harm, including:

Information on Gambling Harm: They offer a wealth of information about the risks associated with gambling and how to minimise harm.
Links to Support Services: They can direct you to other relevant services and resources.
Campaigns and Initiatives: They run campaigns to promote responsible gambling and raise awareness about problem gambling.

3. Healthline

Healthline (0800 611 116) is a free, 24/7 phone service where you can speak to a registered nurse. They can provide health advice, information, and referrals to other services, including those that deal with gambling issues.

4. Your GP (General Practitioner)

Your GP is a valuable resource. They can:

Assess Your Situation: They can assess your situation and provide a medical perspective on your gambling habits.
Referrals: They can refer you to specialist services, such as counsellors or psychiatrists.
Medication: In some cases, they may prescribe medication to help manage symptoms like anxiety or depression that can be linked to gambling.

5. Other Support Services

Depending on your specific needs, you might also find support from:

Budgeting Services: If gambling has led to financial difficulties, budgeting services can help you manage your finances and get back on track.
Family Support Services: If your gambling is affecting your family, family support services can provide counselling and support for you and your loved ones.
Gambling Anonymous: This is a peer support group where people with gambling problems can share their experiences and support each other.

Taking the First Step: How to Access Counselling and Support

The thought of reaching out for help can be daunting, but it’s often the most important step. Here’s how to get started:

Acknowledge the Problem: The first step is admitting that you have a problem. This is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Contact a Helpline: Call the Problem Gambling Foundation helpline (0800 664 262) or Healthline (0800 611 116) to talk to someone immediately.
Visit a Website: Go to the Problem Gambling Foundation website or Te Hiringa Hauora website to find information and resources.
Talk to Your GP: Make an appointment with your GP to discuss your concerns.
Find a Counsellor: Search for a counsellor in your area who specialises in gambling issues. The Problem Gambling Foundation can help you find one.
Join a Support Group: Consider joining a support group where you can connect with others who understand what you’re going through.

Remember, all of these services are confidential, so you can feel safe sharing your experiences. There’s no need to feel ashamed or embarrassed.

Tips for a Smoother Journey to Recovery

Here are some tips to help you on your journey to recovery:

Be Honest with Yourself and Others: Honesty is crucial for recovery. Be honest with yourself about your gambling habits and be open with your counsellor and support network.
Set Realistic Goals: Don’t try to change everything overnight. Set small, achievable goals and celebrate your successes.
Avoid Triggers: Identify your triggers (e.g., certain websites, places, or people) and avoid them.
Find Healthy Coping Mechanisms: Develop healthy ways to cope with stress and boredom, such as exercise, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones.
Build a Support Network: Surround yourself with supportive people who can encourage and motivate you.
Be Patient: Recovery takes time and effort. Don’t get discouraged if you experience setbacks. Keep going!

Conclusion: You’re Not Alone

Dealing with gambling issues can be tough, but remember, you don’t have to go through it alone. New Zealand has a range of fantastic services designed to help you. By reaching out for support, you’re taking a brave and positive step towards a healthier, happier life. Start by contacting the Problem Gambling Foundation or your GP. They’re there to help, and you deserve to feel better. Take care of yourself, and remember, there is hope for a brighter future. Arohanui!