Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment

Online gaming should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While gaming can be fun and exciting, it's important to approach it with realistic expectations and maintain control over your gaming habits.

Remember: the house always has a mathematical advantage. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and never view gaming as an investment or income source.

Age Verification

In New Zealand, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gaming activities. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to gamble.

All players must verify their age during account registration. By accessing gaming platforms, you confirm that you are of legal age and comply with all applicable laws and regulations in your jurisdiction.

Parents and guardians: Use parental controls and monitoring tools to help protect young people from accessing gaming sites.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

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

• Chasing losses: Trying to recover money lost by gambling more or with larger bets
• Hiding gambling: Concealing the extent of your gaming activity from friends, family, or partners
• Loss of control: Being unable to stick to time or money limits you've set
• Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, school, family commitments, or other important obligations due to gaming
• Financial problems: Using borrowed money, credit cards, or savings to fund gaming
• Escalating stakes: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to achieve the same excitement
• Mood changes: Becoming irritable, anxious, or depressed when unable to game
• Failed attempts to quit: Repeatedly trying but failing to reduce or stop gaming
• Relationship strain: Gaming causing conflicts with loved ones
• Physical neglect: Neglecting sleep, hygiene, nutrition, or exercise due to gaming

If you recognise any of these warning signs in yourself or someone else, it's important to seek help immediately.

Self-Help Tools & Features

Responsible gaming platforms offer a range of tools to help you stay in control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount of money you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Cap the amount of money you're willing to lose in a defined timeframe
• Session Time Limits: Set automatic reminders or session cut-offs to prevent extended gaming periods
• Reality Checks: Receive periodic notifications during gaming sessions to help you stay aware of time and money spent
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming platforms, preventing access for a specified duration
• Account Pause: Take a break from gaming without permanently closing your account
• Cool-Off Periods: Request a mandatory waiting period before reactivating your account after self-exclusion

Make use of these tools as part of your responsible gaming strategy. Most reputable gaming platforms offer these features at no cost.

Support Organisations & Help Resources

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. The following organisations provide confidential support, counselling, and resources:

New Zealand

• Problem Gambling Foundation (Aotearoa) – Free, confidential support and counselling for problem gambling
  Website: www.pgf.nz
  Helpline: 0800 664 262 (free call)
• Gambling Helpline (Aotearoa) – 24/7 support and advice
  Helpline: 0800 664 262

Australia

• Gambling Help Online – Free counselling and self-assessment tools
  Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au

United Kingdom

• GamCare – Free support, counselling, and information
  Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop – National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling
  Website: www.gamstop.co.uk

Canada

• Responsible Gambling Council – Resources and support for problem gambling
  Website: www.responsiblegambling.org

United States

• National Council on Problem Gambling – Confidential helpline and resources
  Website: www.ncpgambling.org
  Helpline: 1-800-522-4700

Germany

• Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) – Prevention and support services
  Website: www.bzga.de
  Helpline: 0800 1 372 374

Need Help?

If you or someone you care about is struggling with problem gambling, please reach out for help today.

There is no shame in seeking support. Problem gambling is a recognised health issue, and trained professionals are available to help you regain control. The organisations listed above offer confidential, non-judgmental assistance.

Take action now:

• Contact a helpline or support organisation in your region
• Use self-exclusion tools to limit access to gaming platforms
• Speak with a trusted friend, family member, or healthcare provider
• Seek professional counsel