The instances of gaming trusts misusing their funds is a scandal – and one that is being addressed by DIA. We need the monitoring and auditing functions to work well so that all can have confidence that the controls are working.

While gambling is a legitimate activity and the proceeds of gaming machines are monitored and controlled, we like thousands of other charities, are reliant on this as one part of our fundraising mix. Unless other forms of community or government support are created to replace these funds the ngo sector in New Zealand – across health, social services, education and sport – will continue to apply for grant funding for their existence.

Spoken like a true pokie addict.

Pokie machines cause significant financial harm to 20% of regular users, decimates families and caused a significant fall in donations to charities shortly after their introduction.

Just as Government regulation and the taxing of cigarettes does nothing to ensure the benefits of smoking cigarettes outweighs the costs of doing so, government regulation and donation to “charities” does not obviate the harm pokie machines cause.

Next thing we know Arthritis New Zealand will be telling people to play the pokies because doing so reduces the pain and suffering of others.

Plus, there are way more gaming machines in low-income areas than anywhere else. The DIA might be trying to reduce harm, but the MOH consistently confirms that harms are still rampant in our communities.