Responsible Gaming
Introduction
Online gaming should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. It's important to approach online casinos with realistic expectations and a responsible mindset. Always gamble within your means and only use money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
Online gambling in New Zealand is strictly regulated. You must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online casino gaming. It is illegal for anyone under the legal gambling age to access gambling services. If you are under 18, please do not use online casinos.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can affect anyone. Please review the following checklist and seek help if you recognize any of these warning signs in yourself or someone you know:
- Spending more money on gambling than you can afford to lose
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to recover money
- Hiding or lying about your gambling activities
- Neglecting family, work, or other important responsibilities due to gambling
- Experiencing feelings of anxiety, guilt, or shame related to gambling
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same level of excitement
- Failed attempts to control, reduce, or stop gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
- Borrowing money or going into debt to finance gambling
- Experiencing relationship conflicts due to gambling habits
Self-Help Tools
Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control of your gambling. These include:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit in a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Establish a maximum amount you're willing to lose before you stop gambling
- Reality Checks: Enable notifications that remind you how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from a casino to prevent access to your account
- Time-Out: Take a break from gambling for a set period without permanently closing your account
We encourage you to use these tools proactively to manage your gaming responsibly.
Support Organizations
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available. Please reach out to one of these trusted support organizations:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF): Free counselling and support services available 24/7. Phone: 0800 664 262 or visit www.pgf.nz
- Gambling Helpline NZ: Free confidential helpline. Phone: 0800 GAMBLING (0800 425 338) or text 8393
International Support (if accessing from other regions)
- United Kingdom: GamCare - www.gamcare.org.uk | GamStop - www.gamstop.co.uk
- Australia: Gambling Help Online - www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Canada: Responsible Gambling Council - www.responsiblegambling.org
- United States: National Council on Problem Gambling - www.ncpgambling.org
Call to Action
If you believe you have a gambling problem, please seek help immediately. There is no shame in reaching out for support. Professional counsellors are available and ready to help you regain control of your life. Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation at 0800 664 262 (NZ) or your local support organization today.
Remember: gambling should only be for entertainment. If it's causing you stress, financial hardship, or affecting your relationships, it's time to take action and seek professional help.