Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online casino gaming should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While games of chance can be fun and exciting, they are designed with a mathematical edge that favours the house. Always gamble within your means and never bet more than you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
In New Zealand, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online casino gaming. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet this legal requirement before playing. If you are under 18, please do not access or use online gambling services.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in your own behaviour, you may be developing a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to win back money you've lost
- Hiding your gambling habits or lying to friends and family about how much you gamble
- Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
- Feeling anxious or irritable when you try to reduce or stop gambling
- Neglecting work, school, or personal relationships due to gambling
- Using gambling as an escape from stress, anxiety, or depression
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Gambling with money meant for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
- Experiencing negative consequences in your health, finances, or relationships
Self-Help Tools & Limits
Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control of your gambling:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Cap the amount of money you're willing to lose during a gaming session
- Time Limits: Set reminders or automatic session timeouts to prevent extended play
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic notifications during play to help you stay aware of time and money spent
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from accessing a casino for a defined period
These tools are designed to support responsible gaming. Use them proactively to maintain control over your gambling habits.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. The following organisations offer free, confidential support:
New Zealand
- Gambling Harm Support: Free and confidential support service for people affected by gambling harm. Contact your local health board or visit your GP for referral information.
- The Problem Gambling Foundation: Leading charity providing support, counselling, and resources. Phone: 0800 664 262 or visit www.pgf.nz
- Samaritans: Free emotional support 24/7. Phone: 0800 726 666
International Resources
- GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (UK): www.gamstop.co.uk
- Gambling Help Online (Australia): www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (USA): www.ncpgambling.org
Take Action Today
If you think you may have a problem with gambling, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. The sooner you reach out, the sooner you can get support. Whether it's talking to a counsellor, calling a helpline, or speaking with someone you trust, there are people ready to help you.
Don't wait—contact one of the organisations listed above today. Support is available 24/7 and is completely confidential.
This responsible gaming information is provided by accd.org.nz as of 2026. For the most current information and resources, please visit the organisations listed above directly.