Responsible Gaming
1. Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
Online casino gaming should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. It is not a reliable way to earn money or solve financial problems. Casino games are designed with a house edge, meaning the odds always favour the casino over time. Please only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and never view it as an investment or income source.
2. Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years of age (or the legal gambling age in your jurisdiction) to access and play at online casinos. We take age verification seriously and comply with all New Zealand gambling regulations. If you are under the legal age, please do not attempt to register or access casino services.
3. Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop without you realizing it. Please be aware of these warning signs:
- Chasing losses — Trying to recover money lost by gambling more
- Hiding gambling activity — Concealing the amount of time or money spent gambling from family or friends
- Gambling with money needed for essentials — Using funds for bills, rent, food, or other necessities
- Neglecting responsibilities — Missing work, school, or family obligations due to gambling
- Mood changes — Becoming irritable, anxious, or depressed when not gambling
- Increased gambling — Needing to gamble with larger amounts to achieve the same excitement
- Failed attempts to stop — Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce or quit gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble — Taking loans or using credit cards to fund gambling
- Relationship problems — Gambling-related conflicts with family or friends
- Physical symptoms — Sleep problems, stress, or anxiety related to gambling
If you recognize any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, it's important to seek help immediately.
4. Self-Help Tools and Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control over your gambling:
- Deposit Limits — Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits — Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose during a gaming session
- Reality Checks — Receive reminders at regular intervals about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion — Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing casino accounts
- Session Time Limits — Automatically log out after a set period of time
- Account Closure — Close your account if you need a longer break from gambling
Use these tools proactively to protect yourself and maintain responsible gaming habits.
5. Support Organizations and Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Below are organizations that provide free, confidential support:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation — Free counselling and support services for problem gamblers and their families
www.pgf.nz | Phone: 0800 654 654 - Gamblers Anonymous NZ — Support groups and peer assistance
www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz - Samaritans — 24/7 emotional support and crisis assistance
Phone: 0800 726 666
International Resources
- UK — GamCare — Free gambling support
www.gamcare.org.uk - UK — GamStop — National self-exclusion scheme
www.gamstop.co.uk - Australia — Gambling Help Online — Counselling and resources
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au - Canada — Responsible Gambling Council — Information and support
www.responsiblegambling.org - USA — National Council on Problem Gambling — Helpline and resources
www.ncpgambling.org | Phone: 1-800-522-4700
6. Take Action Today
If you believe you have a problem with gambling, please reach out for help today. Problem gambling is treatable, and professional support is available. There is no shame in seeking assistance—taking action is a sign of strength.
Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation (0800 654 654) or visit www.pgf.nz to speak with a trained counsellor who can provide confidential support and guidance.
Remember: Gambling should be fun. If it's causing you stress, financial hardship, or affecting your relationships, it's time to get help.