Responsible Gaming
Gambling should be a form of entertainment, not a way to earn money or solve financial difficulties. Always play within your means and never chase losses. If the fun stops, take a break.
Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years of age, or the minimum legal gambling age in your New Zealand jurisdiction, to create an account or place a bet. Land-based casinos in New Zealand have a minimum entry age of 20, while most online operators require you to be 18 or older. Underage gambling is illegal and prevents fair play. We encourage parents and guardians to use filtering software to block access to gambling websites.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Consider the following checklist and be honest with yourself:
- Chasing losses by returning to try to win back money you have lost.
- Hiding gambling activity from family, friends, or employers.
- Feeling restless or irritable when trying to cut down or stop gambling.
- Borrowing money, selling possessions, or using funds meant for bills to gamble.
- Lying about the time or money spent on gambling.
- Gambling to escape from stress, anxiety, or depression.
- Neglecting work, studies, or relationships because of gambling.
- Thinking gambling can solve financial problems or provide a reliable income.
If you recognise three or more of these signs in yourself or someone you care about, it may be time to seek help.
Self-Help Tools
Most reputable online gambling operators provide practical settings to help you stay in control. You can typically find these in your account settings or responsible gaming section:
- Deposit limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit per day, week, or month.
- Loss limits: Cap the amount you are willing to lose within a chosen time frame.
- Reality checks: Receive pop-up reminders showing how long you have been playing.
- Session time limits: Restrict the duration of each gambling session.
- Self-exclusion: Temporarily or permanently block yourself from accessing your account or the site.
- Cooling-off periods: Take a short break from gambling, usually from 24 hours to 6 weeks.
Support Organizations
If you need professional help, confidential support is available in your region:
New Zealand
- Gambling Helpline New Zealand – Free, confidential 24/7 support. Call 0800 654 655 or visit www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
- Safer Gambling Aotearoa – Information and tools for New Zealand players: www.safergambling.org.nz
United Kingdom
- GamCare – National support service: www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop – Free self-exclusion scheme for UK-licensed sites: www.gamstop.co.uk
Australia
- Gambling Help Online – Free, confidential advice and counselling: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council – Prevention, education, and support: www.responsiblegambling.org
United States
- National Council on Problem Gambling – Helpline and resources: www.ncpgambling.org
Germany
- Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) – Information and counselling for gambling addiction: www.bzga.de
For other countries, please contact your national problem gambling helpline or your local health authority.
If You Have a Problem, Seek Help Now
Problem gambling is treatable, and reaching out is a sign of strength. Contact one of the organisations above, speak to a trusted friend or family member, or call your local helpline. You do not have to face this alone. Taking the first step today can protect your finances, your wellbeing, and your relationships.