Pokie machines are the main reason New Zealand women suffer with gambling addiction. A study has shown that around 90% of people are addicted to these machines. It was discovered for the first time, last year, when female gamblers were in counseling more than males.
The Ministry of Health (MOH) is responsible for funding and coordinating it all. Latest MOH figures showed 4780 clients received face-to-face counseling services last year, a 15% increase from last year. Since 1991 it all has been popular to play, and just as popular to get addicted to.
Most of the new callers, 83%, said they were hooked on non-casino pokie machines. 95% of new female clients reported pokies were the reason for the problems. Auckland and Christchurch were the places where the most clients came from. |
