Responsible Gaming

Gambling 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 operator in the long term. Please gamble responsibly and only with money you can afford to lose.

Age Verification

You must be at least 18 years of age to gamble online in New Zealand. If you are under the legal gambling age, please do not use online casino services. Parents and guardians are encouraged to monitor young people's internet activity and discuss the risks of gambling.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Be aware of the following warning signs that may indicate problematic gambling behaviour:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
• Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
• Hiding gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
• Neglecting work, study, or personal relationships due to gambling
• Borrowing money or using credit to finance gambling
• Feeling anxious or irritable when unable to gamble
• Needing to gamble with increasing amounts to achieve the same excitement
• Failed attempts to stop or reduce gambling
• Using gambling as an escape from stress, anxiety, or depression
• Experiencing financial difficulties linked to gambling activity

If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, help is available.

Self-Help Tools and Controls

Most reputable online casinos provide the following responsible gaming tools:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly).
• Loss Limits: Set a limit on the amount you are willing to lose within a given timeframe.
• Reality Checks: Enable pop-up reminders that show how long you have been playing and how much you have spent.
• Session Time Limits: Set automatic session timeouts to prevent extended gambling sessions.
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from a casino platform to take a break from gambling.
• Account Closure: Permanently close your gambling account if you wish to stop gambling entirely.

Use these tools proactively to maintain control over your gambling activity.

Support and Help Resources for New Zealand

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, confidential support is available:

New Zealand Resources

• Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF)
  Phone: 0800 664 262 (free, 24/7)
  Website: www.pgf.nz
  Email: [email protected]
  The leading gambling support service in New Zealand offering counselling, support groups, and resources.
• Gambling Helpline – Te Apārangi o Aotearoa
  Phone: 0800 654 655 (free, confidential)
  Text: 8393
  Available 24 hours, 7 days a week.
• 1737 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
  Phone: 1737 (free call or text)
  Available 24/7 for those in emotional distress or crisis.

International Resources

• GamCare (United Kingdom)
  www.gamcare.org.uk
  Support for problem gambling across the UK.
• GamStop (United Kingdom)
  www.gamstop.co.uk
  National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling.
• Gambling Help Online (Australia)
  www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
  Free confidential support and counselling.
• Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
  www.responsiblegambling.org
  Evidence-based resources and support.
• National Council on Problem Gambling (United States)
  www.ncpgambling.org
  Resources and treatment referrals.

Need Help? Reach Out Today

If gambling is causing problems in your life—whether financial, emotional, or relational—please reach out for help. There is no shame in seeking support. The organisations listed above are staffed by trained professionals who understand problem gambling and can provide confidential assistance.

Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation on 0800 664 262 or visit www.pgf.nz to speak with someone who can help.

Remember: recovery is possible, and help is available 24/7.