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What is risky gambling?

All gambling carries some risk, but some types of gambling carry more risk than others.

casino games

What is gambling harm?

Gambling harm is any negative impact that gambling has on someone’s life or on the lives of those around them. When the person gambling is being harmed, it’s sometimes called problem gambling or gambling addiction. But harm doesn’t always look the same for everyone.

Gambling harm can include:

  • Financial stress or debt
  • Mental health issues, like anxiety or depression
  • Relationship conflict or breakdown
  • Problems at work or study
  • Feeling isolated or disconnected from others

Even low levels of gambling can cause harm over time. The important thing is recognising the signs early and knowing help is available. 

Types of high risk gambling

Not all gambling products are designed the same. Some have features that make it harder to stop such as fast play speed, frequent wins and losses, and being available 24/7. These features can increase the risk of harm, especially when combined with other factors like stress, isolation, or financial pressure.

In New Zealand, the Gambling Act 2003 classifies gambling into four classes based on the type of activity, prize value, and who operates it:

  • Class 3 includes activities like lotteries and instant-win games with larger prizes, typically run by charitable organisations.
  • Class 4 includes non-casino gaming machines, like pokies in pubs and clubs. These are more strictly regulated due to the higher potential for harm.

While some types of gambling are linked to more frequent or severe harm, the way someone gambles like how often, how much, and in what context often has a bigger impact than the type of game alone.

lottery
online gambling

Examples of gambling activity and risk factors:

  • Online sports betting – Nearly 1 in 3 Kiwi adults now gamble online. The ease of access, in-play betting, and constant promotions can make it harder to keep track.
  • Online casino games – Fast-paced games like online blackjack or slots are often advertised through social media and gaming platforms, especially to younger people.
  • Pokies (slot machines) – Found in pubs, clubs, and casinos, pokies are linked to a high proportion of gambling harm in Aotearoa. NZers lost over $1 billion in 2022 on pokies, with more than 14,500 machines nationwide.
  • Scratch cards – Often seen as a light form of gambling, but their quick-play nature and wide availability can encourage repeat purchases.

Are you investing, trading...or gambling?

Some gambling activities can look or feel like investing or trading. But the motivations and outcomes are very different.
According to MoneyHub, the difference comes down to intent, control, and risk:

Activity Key traits
Investing Long-term strategy. Involves research, planning, and diversification (e.g. KiwiSaver, managed funds). Typically offers a positive return over time.
Trading Short-term buying and selling of stocks or crypto. Higher risk but still guided by analysis.
Gambling

Based on chance. Outcomes can’t be controlled or predicted. Most people lose money over time.

It’s important to know the difference especially as some gambling apps, games and websites may look like trading platforms or encourage behaviours that feel strategic. If you're spending money often, chasing wins, or taking bigger risks over time, you could be moving into harmful territory without realising it.

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