Home » New Gambling Study puts Spotlight on Pacific Region
New Gambling Study puts Spotlight on Pacific Region
Recently updated on August 28th, 2018
While gambling participation is declining in New Zealand, a new study has revealed that Māori and Pacific peoples remain at risk. According to the findings of the Auckland University study, this ethnic group is at a higher risk thanks to a higher number of poker machines. Part of the problem is a lack of recognition for problem gambling signs at smaller venues.
These claims imply that smaller pubs and clubs, who operate most pokies, are at fault. Still, there is some evidence from the Ministry of Health and Auckland University to support this. They claim that the number of poker machines is ‘disproportionate’ in ‘poorer communities’.
Pacific Region Statistics
According to data released by Problem Gambling Foundation of New Zealand in 2017, there is one pokie for every 75 people in these communities. On the other hand, there is one pokie for every 465 people in ‘wealthier communities’. So, anti-pokie campaigners do have a foot to stand on. However, this does not discount the benefit from gaming machine proceeds across NZ. After all, they fund outreach projects and services in all communities.
Yet the gambling addiction rates in the Pacific region still make it an issue in all communities. Specifically, as pub pokies are the ‘preferred form of gambling’ for people who suffer from the addiction. This is according to the 2015 Ministry of Health statistics.
Lance Norman, the Chief Executive Officer of Hāpai te Hauora, has alleged that the number of pokies in poorer communities unfairly target people in the Pacific region. He also supports the claims of Lance O’Sullivan, a prominent anti-gambling campaigner. O’Sullivan has previously called for the government to ban all pokies in New Zealand.
Pause the Pokies
While bans on poker machines could happen, the fact remains that pokies are still running now. Next week, the Gambling Harm Awareness Week will begin. This initiative hopes to raise awareness for the harm gambling could cause. At least 70 pubs and clubs in the Pacific region have committed to ‘Pause the Pokies’ for an hour every day. This will take place very day from 3 September until 9 September.
It might not seem like much, but it’s a step in the right direction. Added to this, the Associate Health Minister – Jenny Salesa- has committed to an ‘open consultation’ about new strategies. Keep visiting New Zealand Casinos for updates on this story.
Taralynn Engels is a seasoned casino news writer with a passion for keeping her readers up-to-date with the latest happenings in the gambling industry. With over five years of professional writing experience, Taralynn has developed a deep understanding of the casino industry and a knack for delivering engaging and informative content. Aside from her in-depth knowledge of the casino industry, Taralynn possesses excellent writing skills that allow her to craft captivating narratives that keep readers hooked until the last word. Her ability to simplify complex concepts and present them in an accessible manner guarantees that her articles are enjoyed by both seasoned casino enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Recently updated on April 4th, 2018Australia’s ongoing difficulties with attracting overseas high rollers to casinos may just have a new solution. The Star Entertainment Group has just signed a shareholder deal with two foreign investors based in Hong Kong, namely Far East Consortium International Limited and Chow Tai Fook Enterprises Limited. These firms acquired a […]
Recently updated on September 18th, 2020There’s nothing as exciting as new slot machines to play at your favourite online casinos. So, we’ll be looking at the latest September slot releases to hit your screens this month. While we can’t list every game out there, we’ve hand-picked the slots that sound like a good time. These […]
Recently updated on August 3rd, 2018Swedish gambling laws are set to change on 1 January 2019, ending a monopoly on the online gambling industry in the country. At least 70 applications are expected to be made by gaming firms, with 22 already submitted. All newly licensed international operators will be taxed 18% to offer gaming, […]
Recently updated on January 10th, 2018Gaming software giant, Novomatic AG, has just bought controlling shares in their Australian rival, Ainsworth Game Technology Limited. Their 52% stake in the company has been approved by a number of regulatory bodies. More so, the deal was finalised last Friday before founder, Len Ainsworth, announced that he would be […]
Recently updated on January 8th, 2018The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has been on a roll in the past few years when it comes to gambling regulations. This week, over 17 online casino operator investigations have wrapped up in the UK. However, five operators will now face license reviews based on findings from these inquiries. They […]