Last updated: June 2026 — James Wilson, Drycleandirectstores
At Drycleandirectstores, we believe that playing online pokies should always be an enjoyable and entertaining experience. James Wilson and the entire team behind drycleandirectstores.com are deeply committed to promoting responsible gaming practices across New Zealand. We understand that for some players, gambling can move beyond entertainment and become a source of harm. This page exists because we genuinely care about your wellbeing — not just your gaming experience.
If you ever feel that gambling is negatively affecting your life, your finances, or your relationships, please read this page carefully and reach out to the support resources listed below. Help is always available, and there is absolutely no shame in asking for it.
Before you play any online pokie, it is important to set a clear intention. Gambling should never be used as a way to earn income, escape personal problems, or cope with stress. Always play with money you can afford to lose, set firm limits before you start, and treat any winnings as a bonus — never as an expectation.
Recognising problematic gambling behaviour early can make a significant difference. Below are some common warning signs to watch for in yourself or someone you care about:
If any of these signs resonate with you, we strongly encourage you to take the self-assessment below and consider contacting a support organisation.
Answer the following questions honestly. The more times you answer yes, the more important it is to seek support:
Even answering yes to just one or two of these questions is a sign worth taking seriously.
Most licensed online casinos allow you to set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit limits. This tool helps you control your spending before you start playing. We strongly recommend setting a deposit limit that reflects what you can genuinely afford to lose as entertainment spending.
Reality check reminders are pop-up notifications that alert you to how long you have been playing. They are designed to break the flow of gambling and encourage you to make a conscious decision about whether to continue. Enable this feature in your casino account settings.
If you feel you need a short break, many casinos offer cooling-off periods ranging from 24 hours to several weeks. During this time, your account is temporarily restricted, giving you space to regain perspective.
Self-exclusion is a formal option that allows you to block yourself from a casino platform for an extended period — often from six months to permanently. If you feel you need this level of support, contact your casino directly and request self-exclusion. It is a brave and positive step.
If you or someone you know needs immediate support, please reach out to these services:
These organisations provide expert advice, counselling, and support for anyone affected by problem gambling:
Drycleandirectstores operates a strict 18+ only policy. All content on drycleandirectstores.com is intended solely for adults aged 18 years and over. We do not condone underage gambling in any form. If you are a parent or guardian, please use parental control tools to prevent minors from accessing gambling-related content. Software such as Gamban and Net Nanny can assist with this.
Problem gambling affects people from all walks of life, and reaching out for help is a sign of strength. At Drycleandirectstores, we are committed to pointing every player in New Zealand toward the support they need. If you have any concerns about your gambling behaviour, please stop playing today and contact one of the organisations listed above. Your wellbeing always comes first.