Gambling Helpline Aotearoa

The Support Services at the Gambling Helpline Aotearoa

At Gambling Helpline Aotearoa, we offer four specialist services: the Māori Helpline, the Pasifika Helpline, the Debt Helpline, and the Youth Helpline. These services provide free guidance, including phone support, face-to-face counselling, and debt assistance.

Beyond phone counselling, you can text 8006 with your gambling concerns. A specialized counsellor will review your message and respond with personalized support. This text service complements the helpline’s other resources, ensuring you receive the help you need in a format that suits you best.

The Gambling Helpline Forum is an anonymous platform where individuals can share experiences and find encouragement. It’s a valuable resource for anyone seeking peer support while addressing gambling issues.

Let’s review the specialized services in more detail.

Māori Helpline

The Māori Gambling Helpline, available at 0800 654 656, provides 24/7 support tailored to the needs of Māori communities. The kaupapa (goal) is to address gambling-related issues within a cultural framework, offering practical advice and emotional support.

Support is available for individuals struggling with their gambling habits and for family members affected by someone else’s gambling. Services are offered in Māori, English, and French to ensure accessibility.

Pasifika Helpline

The Pasifika Gambling Helpline, available at 0800 654 657, caters specifically to Pacific Island communities. Professional counsellors provide a culturally sensitive approach to addressing gambling-related issues, offering guidance and actionable solutions.

Face-to-face counselling is available in some regions, and ongoing support can be arranged to ensure lasting recovery and well-being.

Debt Helpline

Concerned about gambling-related debt? The Debt Gambling Helpline at 0800 654 658 provides confidential financial counselling to help you regain control. The service includes budgeting assistance, debt mapping, and communication with creditors.

• Budgeting your monthly expenses
• Managing debt information
• Securing safe communication with creditors
• Access to legal and consumer advice

Youth Helpline

The Youth Gambling Helpline, available at 0800 654 659, addresses the unique challenges faced by young people. Younger counsellors provide relatable and confidential support, with services available via WhatsApp and phone.

Whether for personal struggles or concerns about a loved one, this service is an invaluable resource for young adults.

Helpline Self-Help

Educational resources are available on the Gambling Helpline website, offering self-help guides such as:

• Preparing for a Change
• Gambling Triggers
• 10 Warning Signs

Avoiding Gambling-Related Problems

Proactive steps can help mitigate gambling harm. Call any of the four helplines for regular support or consider alternatives like spending time with family, exercising, or pursuing hobbies.

For those affected by someone else’s gambling, support is also available to manage the stress and challenges that arise.

Conclusion

Reaching out to Gambling Helpline Aotearoa is a vital step towards addressing gambling-related issues. Whether through phone, text, or in-person support, the helpline offers comprehensive assistance tailored to your needs.

Don’t hesitate to seek help today and take the first step toward recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions