Responsible Gaming
Our Commitment to Safe Gaming
At wadestownpresbyterian.org.nz, we are committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Online pokies and casino games should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. We encourage all players to gamble responsibly and within their means.
Age Verification
Online gambling in New Zealand is only available to individuals aged 18 years and older. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet the legal age requirement in your jurisdiction before participating in any online gaming activities. We take age verification seriously and reserve the right to request proof of age at any time.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognize any of the following signs in your own behavior, you may be developing a gambling problem:
- Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to win back money
- Hiding gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
- Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, depression, or other problems
- Borrowing money to fund gambling activities
- Experiencing mood changes (irritability, anxiety) when unable to gamble
- Neglecting work, school, family, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
- Unsuccessful attempts to reduce or stop gambling
- Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, food, bills)
- Feeling a need to gamble with increasing amounts for the same level of excitement
Self-Help Tools and Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose before stopping play
- Reality Checks: Enable reminders during gaming sessions to track how long you've been playing and how much you've wagered
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently close your account to prevent access to gaming platforms
- Session Limits: Set time restrictions on how long you can play in a single session
- Account Cooling-Off Period: Take a break from gambling for a set period
We strongly encourage you to use these tools as part of your responsible gaming strategy.
Support Organizations and Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. The following organizations provide free, confidential support:
New Zealand
- Gambling Helpline (Aotearoa) - Free phone and online support
Phone: 0800 654 655
Website: www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz - Problem Gambling Foundation - Support and counseling services
Phone: 0800 424 243
Website: www.pgf.nz
International Resources
- GamCare (United Kingdom) - Support for problem gamblers
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (United Kingdom) - National self-exclusion scheme
www.gamstop.co.uk - Gambling Help Online (Australia) - Professional counseling and support
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) - Evidence-based resources
www.responsiblegambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling (United States) - Helpline and resources
www.ncpgambling.org
Take Action Today
If you are experiencing problem gambling, please reach out for help immediately. Problem gambling is a serious issue that can affect your mental health, relationships, and financial stability. Support is available, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Contact the Gambling Helpline (Aotearoa) on 0800 654 655 or visit www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz for confidential support 24/7.
Remember: Online gaming should be fun and entertaining. If it stops being enjoyable, it's time to seek help. Your wellbeing matters.