Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
Online casino gaming is designed to be a form of entertainment and should never be viewed as a way to make money or solve financial problems. The odds in all casino games are mathematically designed in favor of the house. Always gamble only with money you can afford to lose, and treat any winnings as a bonus rather than expected income.
Age Verification
Online gambling in New Zealand is only for players aged 18 years and older. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet the legal age requirement before participating in any online casino activities. Licensed operators are required to verify your age and identity before allowing access to gaming platforms.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Be aware of these common warning signs that may indicate a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to recover money lost
- Gambling with money intended for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
- Hiding gambling activities or lying about the amount spent
- Experiencing anxiety, irritability, or mood changes related to gambling
- Neglecting family, work, or social commitments due to gambling
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts to achieve the same excitement
- Failed attempts to cut down or stop gambling
- Borrowing money or incurring debt to fund gambling
- Feeling compelled to gamble to escape stress or negative emotions
- Jeopardizing relationships or employment due to gambling habits
If you recognize any of these signs in your behavior, it is important to seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online casinos offer the following tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Cap the amount you are willing to lose during a gaming session
- Session Time Limits: Set automatic reminders or session timeouts to limit playing time
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic pop-up notifications showing your time spent and money wagered
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing gambling accounts
- Account Closure: Request permanent closure of your account
Use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gambling habits and stay within your predetermined limits.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation – Free helpline and support services
www.pgf.nz
Phone: 0800 664 262 - Gambling Helpline – Confidential counseling and information
Phone: 0800 006 886
International Resources
- GamCare (United Kingdom) – Free support and information
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (United Kingdom) – National self-exclusion scheme
www.gamstop.co.uk - Gambling Help Online (Australia) – Counseling and treatment information
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) – Resources and support
www.responsiblegambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling (United States) – Information and referrals
www.ncpgambling.org
Need Help? Take Action Today
Problem gambling is a serious issue that affects individuals and families. If you are experiencing difficulty controlling your gambling, or if gambling is causing harm to your life, relationships, or finances, please reach out for help immediately.
Recovery is possible, and support services are confidential, free, and available to assist you. Don't wait—contact one of the organizations listed above or speak with a trusted family member, friend, or healthcare professional.
Your wellbeing is important. Help is available.