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 we provide information about online casinos, it's important to understand that casino games are games of chance with a built-in house edge. Always gamble only with money you can afford to lose, and set limits before you start playing.
Age Verification
Online gambling in New Zealand is only available to individuals who are 18 years of age or older. If you are under 18, please do not use any online casino services. Licensed online casinos are required to verify your age and identity before allowing you to play.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of these warning signs in your own behaviour, it may be time to seek help:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to recover money you've lost
- Hiding your gambling activity or lying about how much you gamble
- Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
- Experiencing mood swings or irritability when unable to gamble
- Spending increasing amounts of time and money on gambling
- Neglecting family, work, or other important responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Feeling anxious, depressed, or stressed when not gambling
- Failed attempts to cut down or control your gambling
- Using gambling as an escape from problems or difficult emotions
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control of your gambling:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit within a specific time period
- Loss Limits: Cap the amount you're willing to lose during a gaming session or time period
- Reality Checks: Receive regular notifications reminding you how long and how much you've been playing
- Time-Out (Cool-Off Period): Take a break from gambling for a set period without closing your account permanently
- Self-Exclusion: Permanently or temporarily exclude yourself from accessing gambling services
- Account Closure: Close your account if you wish to stop gambling entirely
We strongly encourage you to use these tools if you feel your gambling is getting out of control.
Support Organizations & Resources for New Zealand
If you're experiencing problems with gambling, professional help is available. The following organisations provide free, confidential support:
New Zealand Organisations
-
Problem Gambling Foundation (New Zealand)
Freephone: 0800 664 262
Email: info@pgf.nz
Website: www.pgf.nz
Provides free counselling and support services for problem gambling -
Gamblers Anonymous New Zealand
Support groups across New Zealand for people affected by gambling
Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz
International Resources
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GamCare (United Kingdom)
www.gamcare.org.uk -
GamStop (United Kingdom Self-Exclusion)
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
Need Help? Take Action Today
If you believe you may have a problem with gambling, or if someone you know is struggling, please reach out for help. Speaking to a trained counsellor is free, confidential, and the first step towards recovery. You don't have to face this alone.
Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation on 0800 664 262 or visit www.pgf.nz today.
This information is provided for educational purposes. yogafestival.nz is committed to promoting responsible gambling practices. If you choose to use online casino services, always gamble responsibly and within your means.