Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Fun, Not a Financial Solution
Online casino gaming is designed as entertainment only. It should never be viewed as a way to earn money, pay bills, or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and losses are part of the gaming experience. Please only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
In New Zealand, you must be 18 years of age or older to legally participate in online gambling activities. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet this legal requirement before registering with any online casino operator. All reputable operators verify age and identity as a legal obligation.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following behaviours in yourself or someone you know, problem gambling may be developing:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding your gambling activity or lying about how much you gamble
- Gambling with money needed for essentials (rent, bills, food, education)
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when unable to gamble
- Spending more time and money gambling than intended
- Neglecting family, work, study, or hobbies due to gambling
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Failed attempts to cut down or stop gambling
- Gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
- Friends or family expressing concern about your gambling
Self-Help Tools & Controls
Responsible online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose within a set period
- Betting Limits: Restrict the maximum bet size per spin or hand
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic pop-up reminders showing how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Time-Out/Cool-Off Periods: Temporarily suspend your account for hours or days to take a break
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily close your account for a set period (typically 6 months or longer) or permanently
Always use these tools proactively to protect your wellbeing and finances.
Support Organizations in New Zealand & Beyond
If you need help with problem gambling, the following organizations provide free, confidential support:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (Te Hiranga Rū): Free counselling and support services
Website: www.pgf.nz
Helpline: 0800 664 262 (free call) - Gambling Helpline (Te Whakawhitinga o Te Rua Rautahi): Confidential support and information
Website: www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
Helpline: 0800 654 655 (free call)
International Resources
- GamCare (United Kingdom): Support for problem gambling
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (United Kingdom): National self-exclusion scheme
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk - Gambling Help Online (Australia): Free counselling and information
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): Resources and support
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling (United States): Helpline and resources
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
Problem gambling is treatable, and support is available. If you or someone you care about is struggling with gambling, please don't hesitate to contact one of the organizations above. These services are confidential, free, and staffed by trained professionals who understand problem gambling.
Remember: Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.