Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online casino gaming is designed to be a form of entertainment and leisure activity. It should never be viewed as a way to earn money, pay bills, or solve financial problems. Always gamble within your means and remember that the house always has a mathematical advantage. Play for fun, not for profit.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gambling in New Zealand. This is a legal requirement. If you are under 18, please do not attempt to access gambling services. Licensed operators are required to verify your age before allowing you to play.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may indicate a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to win back money you've lost
- Gambling with money you cannot afford to lose
- Hiding your gambling activities or lying about how much you gamble
- Gambling to escape negative emotions, stress, or personal problems
- Neglecting work, school, family, or relationships due to gambling
- Experiencing mood swings or irritability when unable to gamble
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Being unable to stop or reduce your gambling despite wanting to
- Constantly thinking about gambling or planning your next gaming session
- Requiring larger bets or stakes to achieve the same level of excitement
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online casinos offer built-in tools to help you manage your gambling responsibly:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount of money you can deposit within a specified time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Limit the amount of money you are willing to lose over a set period
- Reality Checks: Receive regular pop-up reminders during your gaming session showing how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Time Limits: Set session time limits to encourage breaks from gaming
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing casino services when you feel your gambling is becoming problematic
Take advantage of these tools and use them proactively to maintain control over your gambling activities.
Support Organisations & Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, confidential help and support is available:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (Aotearoa): Free, confidential counselling and support services
Website: www.pgf.nz
Phone: 0800 664 262 - Gambling Helpline: Free telephone counselling service
Phone: 0800 006 886
International Resources
- GamCare (United Kingdom): www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (United Kingdom): National self-exclusion scheme - www.gamstop.co.uk
- Gambling Help Online (Australia): www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (United States): www.ncpgambling.org
- Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (Germany): Information and support on problem gambling
If You Need Help
Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you believe your gambling has become problematic or is negatively impacting your life, please reach out to one of the support organisations listed above. Professional counsellors are available to provide confidential, non-judgmental assistance.
Remember: Recovery is possible, and support is available 24/7. You don't have to face this alone.