Know your odds
You might be hoping that a big win could make a difference for you and your family but your chances of winning while gambling are a lot lower than you might think. Knowing your odds of winning can really put your chances into perspective.
How pokies work
Pokie machines are designed to get you to keep playing for as long as possible. You can’t beat or cheat them even if you believe you have a system.
A lot of websites claim that they can tell you how to beat pokies. They're usually either created by companies that profit from pokies, or by people who have been paid by companies that profit from pokies. The truth is that a lot of time and effort goes into making sure you can't beat pokies, not in the long run. Every pokie machine will always take in more money than it pays out, because their purpose is to make you stay as long as possible. You can’t beat or cheat a pokie machine, even if you have a system. Each spin has as much chance of winning as the last one.
Online gambling
More access to technology can mean more risks, as we can now gamble almost anywhere, at any time. Keep an eye out for common online gambling traps to keep yourself safe.
Using today's technology, it's possible to gamble almost anywhere, 24/7. From the bedroom to the bathroom, even outdoors, and sadly a lot of us have learnt the hard way just how quickly gambling can go from fun to feeling out of control. Here are some of the traps to watch out for and some tips to keep yourself safe so you don’t lose more time and money than you meant to.
How pokies work
Pokie machines are designed to get you to keep playing for as long as possible. You can’t beat or cheat them even if you believe you have a system.
A lot of websites claim that they can tell you how to beat pokies. They're usually either created by companies that profit from pokies, or by people who have been paid by companies that profit from pokies. The truth is that a lot of time and effort goes into making sure you can't beat pokies, not in the long run. Every pokie machine will always take in more money than it pays out, because their purpose is to make you stay as long as possible. You can’t beat or cheat a pokie machine, even if you have a system. Each spin has as much chance of winning as the last one.
Online gambling
More access to technology can mean more risks, as we can now gamble almost anywhere, at any time. Keep an eye out for common online gambling traps to keep yourself safe.
Using today's technology, it's possible to gamble almost anywhere, 24/7. From the bedroom to the bathroom, even outdoors, and sadly a lot of us have learnt the hard way just how quickly gambling can go from fun to feeling out of control. Here are some of the traps to watch out for and some tips to keep yourself safe so you don’t lose more time and money than you meant to.
Guide to casino games
Casinos are built to be exciting and entertaining, but each casino game is designed so players are disadvantaged. Get some tips on how to stay safe.
Step inside a casino and the atmosphere tingles with excitement. While it’s supposed to be a form of entertainment, it can become harmful. You’re likely to spend more than you win, so it should never be counted on as a way to make money.
How does the Lotto draw work?
Many New Zealanders get lured into daydreams, but the odds of winning lotto are against us. Learn more about the reality, in numbers.
Before you check your Lotto results, it's easy to daydream about extended holidays and a sports car for every member of the whānau. But what are your true odds of winning Lotto first division or Powerball?
Gaming vs gambling
The line between gaming and gambling online can be blurry; particularly for the younger generation. Keep your whānau safe by looking out for common traps.
The line between gaming and online gambling is definitely blurry! "Free-to-play" games, apps and websites offering simulated gambling can be entertaining, but despite their name they could still cost you time and money.
Safer gambling
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem or you're worried that one might be developing, we have a few tips to bring it into line.
How much is too much to spend on gambling?
The amount you can safely spend on gambling comes down to your circumstances and what amount you’re able to lose, without it affecting your ability to pay for other things. For some people, even a few dollars may mean they (or others) have to go without weekly essentials. Ask yourself – is your gambling just for fun?
Safer gambling
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem or you're worried that one might be developing, we have a few tips to bring it into line.
How much is too much to spend on gambling?
The amount you can safely spend on gambling comes down to your circumstances and what amount you’re able to lose, without it affecting your ability to pay for other things. For some people, even a few dollars may mean they (or others) have to go without weekly essentials. Ask yourself – is your gambling just for fun?