Last updated: June 2026 — Craig Henare, Acupuncturehb
At Acupuncturehb, we believe that playing online pokies should always be an enjoyable and entertaining experience. Craig Henare and the entire Acupuncturehb team are deeply committed to promoting responsible gaming practices for all players in New Zealand. While we love reviewing and recommending great online pokies experiences, we recognise that gambling carries real risks, and we take those risks seriously. This page exists because we genuinely care about the wellbeing of every person who visits acupuncturehb.co.nz.
Gambling is only ever appropriate as a form of entertainment, not as a way to make money, escape personal difficulties, or cope with stress. If it stops being fun, it is time to stop and seek support.
Problem gambling can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, or experience. It often develops gradually, which is why awareness and early action are so important. Recognising the warning signs early can make a significant difference.
Ask yourself the following questions honestly. If you answer yes to two or more of them, we strongly encourage you to seek support.
Reputable online casinos offer a range of practical tools designed to help players stay in control. We only recommend platforms that provide these features, and we encourage every player to use them proactively.
Setting a deposit limit allows you to cap the amount of money you can add to your casino account over a daily, weekly, or monthly period. This is one of the most effective tools available and can be set up directly in your account settings at any licensed casino.
Reality check reminders send you a notification after a set period of play, reminding you how long you have been gambling and how much you have spent. These prompts help you make informed decisions about whether to continue playing or take a break.
A cooling-off period temporarily restricts your access to gambling for a short defined period, such as 24 hours, one week, or one month. This option is ideal if you feel you need a brief pause without committing to a longer break.
Self-exclusion allows you to block yourself from accessing a casino platform for an extended period, ranging from several months to permanently. This is a powerful step for anyone who feels their gambling is out of control. In New Zealand, you can also contact the New Zealand Racing Board or individual operators directly to arrange self-exclusion across multiple platforms.
If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please reach out. Support is available, and you do not have to face this alone.
The following organisations provide expert advice, confidential support, and practical resources for anyone affected by problem gambling.
Acupuncturehb maintains a strict 18+ policy across all content and casino recommendations on acupuncturehb.co.nz. Gambling is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 in New Zealand, and we fully support age verification measures enforced by all licensed operators. If you are a parent or guardian, we strongly encourage the use of parental control software to restrict access to gambling-related websites.
Reviewing online pokies is something we are passionate about, but not at the expense of player safety. If you ever feel that gambling is causing harm in your life, please use the tools and resources listed on this page. Asking for help is a sign of strength. You deserve support, and it is always available.