Gambling Harm Awareness Week 2026

Starting the Kōrero, Strengthening Whānau

This Gambling Harm Awareness Week, Ngā Manga Pūriri is encouraging whānau and communities across Te Tai Tokerau to start conversations about gambling harm and its changing face.

Gambling is no longer limited to casinos, pokies or the TAB. Today, gambling and gambling-like experiences can be carried in our pockets — through phones, online betting, apps, games and digital platforms.

For rangatahi in particular, the lines between gaming, gambling and online spending can increasingly become blurred.

Gambling harm can affect the whole whānau

Gambling harm isn't only about how much money someone loses.

It can affect relationships, whānau finances, mental and emotional wellbeing, employment, connection and the overall hauora of a person and their whānau.

Sometimes the signs are obvious. Other times they can be difficult to recognise.

A person may be spending more time or money gambling than they intended, hiding their gambling, borrowing money, chasing losses, experiencing financial pressure or finding that gambling is beginning to affect their relationships and everyday life.

Recognising these signs early can make a difference.

Kōrero is a powerful place to start

This week is not about judgement.

It is an opportunity to create safe spaces where whānau can talk openly about gambling, gaming, online influences and the things affecting their wellbeing.

At Ngā Manga Pūriri, we believe in mana-enhancing support that recognises the strengths, aspirations and potential of every person.

Seeking support does not diminish mana. It can be an important step towards restoring balance, strengthening relationships and taking back control over the things that matter.

Supporting whānau across Te Tai Tokerau

For more than 30 years, Ngā Manga Pūriri has worked alongside whānau and communities across Te Tai Tokerau.

Our gambling harm support is free and confidential, and you do not need to be the person gambling to talk with us. We also support partners, whānau and others who may be affected by someone else's gambling.

Throughout Gambling Harm Awareness Week, we encourage everyone to start a kōrero.

Ask the question. Share the information. Check in with your whānau.

Tūngia te ururoa kia tupu whakaritorito te tupu o te harakeke.
Clear away that which hinders so that prosperity will flourish.

Worried about your own gambling or someone you care about?

Kōrero mai. We're here to help.

Ngā Manga Pūriri provides free, confidential gambling harm support throughout Te Tai Tokerau.

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