Last updated: May 2026 — Liam Crawford, Laurashockleyphotography
At Laurashockleyphotography, we believe that playing online pokies should always be an enjoyable and entertaining experience. Our founder, Liam Crawford, built this site with a genuine commitment to player welfare at its core. We are dedicated to providing New Zealand players with honest, transparent information — not just about the best pokies sites, but about how to stay safe and in control while playing them.
This page exists because we care. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, please know that help is available, and you are not alone.
Online pokies are designed for fun. They are a form of entertainment, not a way to make money or solve financial problems. Before you play, it helps to set clear expectations:
Problem gambling can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, or income. Recognising the warning signs early is one of the most important steps toward getting help. Ask yourself honestly whether any of the following apply to you:
If you answered yes to one or more of these points, it may be time to take a step back and seek support. There is no shame in reaching out — it is a sign of strength.
Use this quick checklist to honestly assess your current relationship with gambling. If you answer yes to two or more questions, we strongly encourage you to contact a support organisation.
All reputable online pokies sites available to New Zealand players offer a range of responsible gaming tools. We only recommend platforms that provide these features, and we encourage every player to use them proactively.
Set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit limits directly within your casino account. These limits prevent you from depositing more than you can afford and take effect immediately when reduced.
Enable automatic reminders that alert you to how long you have been playing. These pop-up notifications help you stay aware of time spent on the platform.
If you feel you need a short break, a cooling-off period allows you to pause your account for a set number of days or weeks. You cannot log in or place bets during this time.
Self-exclusion is a more permanent step that blocks you from accessing a gambling site for a defined period, often between six months and five years, or permanently. Contact the customer support team of any casino directly to request self-exclusion. In New Zealand, you can also speak to your bank about blocking gambling-related transactions.
The following organisations provide free, confidential support for anyone affected by problem gambling:
If you are based in New Zealand and need immediate help, the following local services are available:
Laurashockleyphotography operates a strict 18-and-over policy. We do not endorse, support, or promote gambling in any form to individuals under the legal age. All casino operators we review are required to carry out age verification checks before allowing any player to deposit or play real-money games. If you are aware of a minor attempting to access gambling services, please contact the relevant platform immediately.
If you have any questions about responsible gaming or need guidance on accessing support, please do not hesitate to reach out to us directly through our contact page. We are here to help.