Responsible Gaming

Introduction: Gaming for Entertainment

Online casino gaming should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. It is never a reliable way to earn money or solve financial problems. Like any form of entertainment, it carries financial risk. We encourage all players to gamble responsibly and within their means.

Remember: the house always has a mathematical advantage. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose.

Age Verification

In New Zealand, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online casino gaming. Licensed operators are legally required to verify the age of all players before allowing account creation and deposits.

If you are under 18, please do not attempt to access online casinos. If you suspect underage gambling, contact the Department of Internal Affairs or local authorities.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop quickly. If you experience any of the following, it may be time to seek help:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
• Gambling with money intended for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
• Hiding your gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
• Experiencing anxiety, stress, or mood changes related to gambling
• Increasing the amount you gamble to achieve the same excitement
• Failed attempts to reduce or stop gambling
• Neglecting work, school, family, or social responsibilities due to gambling
• Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
• Lying about the extent of your gambling
• Using gambling to escape negative feelings or problems

If you recognize yourself in these signs, help is available. Do not hesitate to reach out.

Self-Help Tools and Responsible Gaming Features

Most reputable online casinos offer built-in tools to help you maintain control. Consider using these features:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Set a cap on the amount of money you are willing to lose within a given period
• Reality Checks: Request pop-up reminders about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from an online casino, preventing access to your account
• Time Limits: Set a maximum duration for your gaming sessions
• Account Cooling Off: Take a mandatory break from gambling for a specified period

These tools are designed to support your responsible gaming journey. Use them proactively before problems develop.

Support Organizations in New Zealand and Internationally

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available:

New Zealand Resources

• Gambling Helpline (NZ): 0800 654 655 (Free, confidential, 24/7) — Call for support, referrals, and counselling
• Problem Gambling Foundation (NZ): Website and support services for problem gambling in Aotearoa New Zealand
• Department of Internal Affairs (NZ): Oversees gambling regulation and provides information about gambling harm

International Resources

• GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk — Free counselling and support for problem gambling
• GamStop (UK): www.gamstop.co.uk — National self-exclusion scheme
• Gambling Help Online (Australia): www.gamblinghelponline.org.au — Counselling and information
• Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org — Education and support resources
• National Council on Problem Gambling (US): www.ncpgambling.org — Information and helpline resources

Need Help? Reach Out Today

Problem gambling is treatable, and recovery is possible. If you are experiencing gambling-related problems or harm, please contact the Gambling Helpline on 0800 654 655 (New Zealand) or one of the support organizations listed above.

You can also speak to a trusted family member, friend, or healthcare provider. Taking the first step to seek help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Remember: If gambling stops being fun and starts causing problems, it's time to ask for help.