Responsible Gaming
Gambling should always be a form of entertainment, never a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Set limits, stay in control, and never gamble more than you can afford to lose. If gambling stops being fun, seek help.
Age Verification
In New Zealand, you must be at least 18 years old to gamble online or at most venues. For casino gambling, the legal age is 20. Always check the legal age in your jurisdiction and ensure you meet the requirements before creating an account or placing a bet.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you care about, it may be time to seek support:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to win back money
- Hiding gambling activity from family or friends
- Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
- Neglecting work, study, or family responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money or selling possessions to gamble
- Feeling guilty, anxious, or depressed after gambling
- Lying about gambling habits or being defensive when asked
- Gambling to escape from stress or other problems
Self-Help Tools
Most reputable online gambling operators provide tools to help you stay in control. Use them proactively:
- Deposit limits – cap how much you can deposit daily, weekly, or monthly
- Loss limits – set a maximum amount you are willing to lose
- Reality checks – receive reminders about how long you have been playing
- Time-outs – take a short break from gambling (24 hours to several weeks)
- Self-exclusion – block access to your account for a set period or permanently
Set these limits before you start playing, and never try to override them.
Support Organizations
If you or someone you know needs help, these organisations offer free, confidential support.
New Zealand
- Gambling Helpline New Zealand – call 0800 654 655 or visit www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
- Problem Gambling Foundation of New Zealand (PGF) – visit www.pgf.nz
International Resources
- United Kingdom – GamCare: www.gamcare.org.uk | GamStop: www.gamstop.co.uk
- Australia – Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Canada – Responsible Gambling Council: www.responsiblegambling.org
- United States – National Council on Problem Gambling: www.ncpgambling.org
- Germany – Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA): www.bzga.de
- Other countries – Please search for your national responsible gambling or problem gambling support service.
Call to Action
If gambling is causing problems in your life, please seek help today. You are not alone, and support is available free of charge. Reach out to a helpline, talk to someone you trust, or use the self-exclusion tools provided by gambling operators. Taking that first step can make all the difference.