Pokie machines are sparking family violence when frustrated gamblers get home.

New research found more than half its 454 participants fall victim to abuse thanks to gambling.

It found most victims are screamed at while nine percent experience physical violence.

Problem Gambling Foundation New Zealand CEO Paula Snowden said it starts off as fun and games but families quickly suffer at the hands of addictive pokies machines.

"People go home so disappointed having lost everything through the pokie machines, and it comes out somewhere. It usually affects the family and children."

She said casinos get a lot of attention for harmful gambling but pokie machines are the real root of the problem.

"Pokie machines in country rural, suburban New Zealand are causing the most harm. The number of machines in New Zealand needs to come down."

Police advice for people in family violence situations

- In an emergency dial 111 and ask for the Police.

- If you or anyone you know is a victim of violence, talk to police or someone who can help.

- If you are concerned about your safety, you (or family or friends) can request information relating to the violence history of a new partner through the Family Violence Information Disclosure Scheme