Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
At scsnz.org.nz, we believe online casino gaming should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. Gambling should never be viewed as a way to earn money, solve financial problems, or supplement your income. The odds always favor the casino in the long term. Play only with money you can afford to lose, and never gamble with funds needed for essentials like rent, bills, or groceries.
Age Verification
Online casino gaming in New Zealand is strictly for adults aged 18 years and over. Before registering with any online casino, you must verify that you meet this legal age requirement. Underage gambling is illegal and can have serious consequences. If you are under 18, please do not attempt to access gaming platforms.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Be aware of these warning signs in yourself or others:
- Chasing losses: Trying to win back money you've lost by gambling more
- Hiding gambling activity: Keeping your gambling secret from family or friends
- Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family time to gamble
- Increasing stakes: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to get the same excitement
- Failed attempts to quit: Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce or stop gambling
- Financial problems: Borrowing money, using credit, or getting into debt to fund gambling
- Mood changes: Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when not gambling
- Loss of control: Gambling longer or with more money than intended
- Relationship strain: Conflicts with family or friends about your gambling
- Using gambling to escape: Gambling to cope with stress, sadness, or other problems
If you recognize any of these signs, seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online casinos offer built-in tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a day, week, or month
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose in a specified period
- Time Limits: Set automatic session reminders or time-outs during gameplay
- Reality Checks: Receive pop-up reminders about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from a casino for a set period
Use these tools proactively. They're designed to help you gamble responsibly and stay in control.
Support Organizations & Helplines
If you're struggling with gambling, professional help is available and confidential:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (Aotearoa) — National helpline and support services
www.pgf.nz
Phone: 0800 664 262 (free, 24/7) - Gambling Helpline (Gamblers Anonymous NZ)
Phone: 0800 006 886
International Organizations
- GamCare (United Kingdom) — Counseling and support for problem gamblers
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (United Kingdom) — National self-exclusion scheme
www.gamstop.co.uk - Gambling Help Online (Australia) — Free counseling and information
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) — Education and support resources
www.responsiblegambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling (United States) — Information and referrals
www.ncpgambling.org
All services above offer confidential support at no cost. You don't have to struggle alone.
If You're Struggling, Get Help Today
Problem gambling is a recognized condition that affects individuals and families across New Zealand and worldwide. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
If you or someone you know is experiencing problems with gambling:
- Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation on 0800 664 262
- Speak with a trusted friend, family member, or healthcare provider
- Visit the websites listed above for additional resources and support
- Use your casino's self-exclusion tools if you need to take a break
Recovery is possible, and help is available. Reach out today.
This Responsible Gaming information is provided for educational purposes. scsnz.org.nz is committed to promoting safe and responsible online casino gaming. All players should ensure they comply with New Zealand laws and regulations governing online gambling.