Responsible Gaming
Introduction
Online pokies should be enjoyed as entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While playing can be fun, it's important to remember that all casino games are games of chance with a built-in house edge. Only gamble what you can afford to lose, and never chase losses or gamble with money needed for essential expenses like rent, food, or bills.
Age Verification
Online gambling in New Zealand is strictly for adults aged 18 years and older. If you are under 18, you must not access or use online gambling services. It is illegal for anyone under the legal age to gamble online or participate in any form of wagering.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognize any of these warning signs in yourself or someone else, it may be time to seek help:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to recover money lost
- Gambling with money intended for bills, rent, or other essential expenses
- Hiding gambling activity or lying about how much time or money you spend gambling
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when trying to cut down on gambling
- Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, depression, or other negative emotions
- Spending increasing amounts of time and money on gambling
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Neglecting work, study, family, or social relationships due to gambling
- Failed attempts to cut down or stop gambling
- Experiencing relationship or financial problems due to gambling
Self-Help Tools
Most responsible online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control of your gambling:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose before you must stop gambling
- Reality Checks: Receive pop-up reminders about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Time Limits: Set session time limits to prevent extended gambling sessions
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from a casino for a set period or indefinitely
Use these tools proactively to stay in control and maintain responsible gambling habits.
Support Organizations in New Zealand
If you're struggling with problem gambling, professional support is available. The following organizations offer free, confidential help:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation
Phone: 0800 664 262 (free call)
Website: www.pgf.nz
Offers counselling, support services, and resources for problem gambling - Gambling Helpline
Phone: 0800 327 6675 (free call)
Available 24/7 with trained counselors
International Support (if needed)
- Australia: Gambling Help Online – www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- United Kingdom: GamCare – www.gamcare.org.uk | GamStop – www.gamstop.co.uk
- Canada: Responsible Gambling Council – www.responsiblegambling.org
- United States: National Council on Problem Gambling – www.ncpgambling.org
Call to Action
If you believe you have a gambling problem or are concerned about your gambling habits, please reach out for help immediately. Support is available, confidential, and free. Speaking to a counselor can make a real difference in your life and the lives of those around you.
Remember: seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. The sooner you reach out, the sooner you can regain control and enjoy life again.
This Responsible Gaming information is provided by chrisherud.com for players in New Zealand. Please gamble responsibly and within your means.