Across New Zealand, responsible gambling campaigners are working hard to help reduce problem gambling rates. One of the most popular safe gambling initiatives is Gamble-Free Day, which will take place on September 1st. Venues and organisations across the country take part in Gamble-Free Day, encouraging patrons to spend their time doing something other than playing pokies or other casino games.

According to members of the Problem Gambling Foundation, it also presents the industry with the chance to open up a dialogue about gambling and how players can do so more responsibly.

"While many of the events and activities are about positive ways we connect with our families and communities, they also allow us to engage with communities and talk about the harm caused by gambling, particularly from pokie machines," says Sara Epperson, National Public Health Practice Leader at the Problem Gambling Foundation.

A number of events have been scheduled to take place on September 1st while others will take place this weekend and after Gamble-Free Day. In Christchurch, families can attend the Just For Fun day at the Central New Brighton School. Hosted by the Problem Gambling Foundation, the Salvation Army and the Family Violence Collaboration, the event will feature a wide range of fun activities for families to enjoy.

In Auckland, the Dream Centre in Manukau will be hosting and event called United Communities: Celebrate Healthy Families. This event aims to raise awareness about responsible gambling and promote healthy attitudes for families. There will be a wide range of fun activities, including cultural entertainment. For more information on Gamble-Free Day in New Zealand, visit the Problem Gambling Foundation’s event page.

There is certainly something for every member of your family to enjoy.

About the Author

George Anderson
Author George, has over 25+ years’ experience in the Pokies and Casinos industry throughout Australia and New Zealand. Loves to research new Pokies games on the block and follows announcements from top industry providers about their upcoming releases. As soon as a new interesting pokie game appears on his radar, George is there to check it out and give you the scoop before anyone else and tell you about all casino sites where can play the latest game. Before this gig, George worked as Pokie game tester, making him an ideal candidate for this genre of work. He is also an animal lover and a proud owner of three dogs.