Gambling is increasingly recognised as a hidden but growing threat in Pacific communities across Aotearoa. Although often overshadowed by housing, health, and income concerns, evidence shows that problem gambling is contributing to financial stress, fractured relationships, and mental health crises, particularly among young people.
Online gambling were surges during covids lockdowns
A report by RNZ Pacific highlighted that Covid-19 lockdowns led to a spike in Pasifiki´s turning to online gambling platforms. With sports cancelled and social routines disrupted, many people found themselves isolated and increasingly exposed to mobile gaming and online casinos.
“People were bored, stressed, or seeking hope during uncertain times,” one community health worker told RNZ. “The algorithms are designed to keep them playing.”
Pasifiki youth particularly vulnerable
A study commissioned by the New Zealand Ministry of Health titled Pacific Islands Families Study: Young Adult Gambling Behaviours and Associated Risk Factors found that Pacific youth were more likely than the general population to experience gambling harm. Risk factors included:
- Financial insecurity
- Intergenerational trauma
- Limited awareness of support services
The report revealed a concerning trend: despite clear signs of harm, many young adults did not recognise their gambling as a problem, a pattern tied to stigma, cultural silence, and normalised behaviour around money.
Prevention must be culturally tailored
In response to similar challenges in Asian communities, a new initiative by Hāpai Te Hauora and 1News launched in late 2025, offering culturally relevant education about gambling harm. Experts suggest Pacific communities could benefit from similar approaches.
“We can’t just translate English brochures into Tongan or Samoan,” says a Pacific health advocate. “We need storytelling, talanoa, and church-based outreach rooted in our values.”
Community leaders are calling for greater funding for grassroots initiatives that use Pacific languages, faith spaces, and respected elders to shift conversations about gambling before harm takes hold.
A call to protect the Pasifiki´s future
As digital gambling platforms grow more sophisticated, with advertising targeting smartphones and social media feeds, Pacific families face an urgent need for both awareness and action.
“This is about our kids, our money, and our mental health,” says one Tongan parent. “We need to speak up before more families lose everything.”
Sources: Ministry of Health NZ, RNZ Pacific, 1News, Hāpai Te Hauora
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling harm, contact 0800 654 655 or visit https://www.health.govt.nz
