Responsible Gaming
Introduction
At Protect Our Whakapapa, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming. Online casino gaming should be enjoyed as entertainment only, never as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. If you're going to play, please do so responsibly and within your means.
Age Verification
Online casino gaming in New Zealand is only available to players aged 18 years and over. All our recommended casinos conduct age verification checks. If you're under 18, we encourage you not to gamble and to seek support if you have questions about gaming.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can affect anyone. If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, please seek help:
- Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding gambling activities or lying about the extent of your gambling
- Neglecting family, work, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
- Gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when trying to reduce gambling
- Failed attempts to control, cut back, or stop gambling
- Relationships affected by gambling behaviour
- Experiencing financial hardship due to gambling
Self-Help Tools
Responsible online casinos offer built-in tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a chosen timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Cap the amount of money you're willing to lose during a gaming session
- Time Limits: Restrict how long you can play in a single session
- Reality Checks: Receive pop-up reminders of how long you've been playing and money spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling sites
- Account Closure: Close your account if you decide to stop gambling
We recommend using these tools from the outset, regardless of your experience level.
Support Organisations in Aotearoa New Zealand
If you're struggling with problem gambling, professional support is available:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation — Free, confidential support and counselling
www.pgf.nz
Phone: 0800 664 262 (24/7 helpline) - Gambling Helpline (NCPG) — Counselling and support services
Phone: 0800 006 886
Email: [email protected] - Samaritans Aotearoa New Zealand — Emotional support and crisis intervention
Phone: 1737 (call or text, free 24/7)
International Support
For players based in other countries, the following organisations offer support:
- GamCare (United Kingdom) — www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (United Kingdom) — National self-exclusion scheme — www.gamstop.co.uk
- Gambling Help Online (Australia) — www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) — www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (United States) — www.ncpgambling.org
- Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (Germany) — Information and support services
Take Action Today
If you think you or someone you care about may have a problem with gambling, please reach out for help. Support is free, confidential, and available 24/7. Problem gambling is treatable, and recovery is possible with the right support.
Don't let gambling impact your wellbeing, relationships, or financial security. Take control today by using the self-help tools available, setting limits, and seeking professional support if needed.