Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online casino gaming should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While casino games can be fun and exciting, it's important to remember that the house always has a mathematical advantage. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and never view gambling as an investment or income source.
Age Verification
In New Zealand, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online casino gaming. This is a legal requirement designed to protect younger people from the potential harms of gambling. All reputable online casinos require age verification before allowing access to their platforms.
If you are under 18, please do not attempt to gamble online. If you are aware of a minor gambling, please encourage them to seek support from a trusted adult.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Be aware of these warning signs:
- Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to win back money
- Hiding gambling activities or lying about the amount spent
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when unable to gamble
- Neglecting family, work, school, or other responsibilities due to gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Loss of interest in hobbies or activities you once enjoyed
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Risking important relationships, education, or career opportunities
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, it's important to seek help early.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose during a gaming session
- Session Time Limits: Set automatic reminders or session timeouts to monitor how long you play
- Reality Checks: Receive regular pop-up notifications during gameplay reminding you of time and money spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from an online casino to take a break
- Account Cooling Off: Request a temporary suspension of your account to step back from gambling
Use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gambling habits. Remember: setting limits is a sign of responsible gaming, not weakness.
Support Organisations & Resources
If you're struggling with problem gambling, confidential help is available. Here are organisations that can provide support:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation – Free, confidential support and counselling
www.problemgambling.org.nz
Phone: 0800 664 262 (free call) - Gamblers Anonymous – Peer support meetings and recovery programme
www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz
International Resources
- GamCare (United Kingdom) – Free counselling and support
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (United Kingdom) – National self-exclusion scheme
www.gamstop.co.uk - Gambling Help Online (Australia) – Counselling and resources
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) – Support and information
www.responsiblegambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling (United States) – Helpline and resources
www.ncpgambling.org
All services listed above are confidential and free of charge. Seeking help is a positive step towards recovery.
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, please don't hesitate to seek help. Reaching out is the first step towards recovery, and support is available 24/7. Problem gambling is treatable, and many people have successfully overcome gambling addiction with professional support.
Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation today: 0800 664 262
You deserve help, and you're not alone in this struggle.