How much was lost on non-casino pokies in Auckland over the last 12 months? What would you guess? I think the answer would probably shock you. It’s $757,436.00. Daily. That’s $276,000,000 a year. Just in Auckland, just losses, and just on NON-casino pokies.
I went to a talk by the Problem Gambling Foundation last week, and although I had a hazy idea of these numbers, I was very surprised - and certainly not in a good way. Add to these numbers the following facts:
For every person with a gambling problem, five to ten other people are affected (such as their partners, children, employers, and whānau).
There are five times as many pokies in the most deprived areas of NZ as the least deprived areas.
Over 50% of all pokie losses are generated from areas with the highest average levels of depression.
And we begin to see just how huge the issue really is.
The Problem Gambling Foundation provides free, confidential counselling and support for anyone impacted by harmful gambling. They are involved in advocacy services, community education, and can help provide info in the case where you feel that you, or someone you love is affected to a concerning degree.
To contact them, call 0800 664 262, email help@pgfnz.org.nz or visit their website.
One of the informative handouts from the Problem Gambling Foundation