Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online pokies and casino games should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. They are games of chance and should never be viewed as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and losing is always a possibility. Please gamble only with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to play online pokies in New Zealand. This is a legal requirement. If you are under 18, you are not permitted to access or use online gambling services. Parents and guardians are encouraged to monitor and restrict access to gambling websites.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you experience any of the following, you may be developing a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by gambling more money to recover what you've lost
- Gambling with money intended for bills, rent, or essential expenses
- Hiding your gambling activities or lying about the amount you gamble
- Inability to stop or reduce your gambling despite wanting to
- Gambling for longer periods or with larger amounts than intended
- Neglecting family, work, education, or other important responsibilities due to gambling
- Experiencing mood swings, anxiety, or depression related to gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble or to pay off gambling debts
- Feeling restless or irritable when trying to cut down on gambling
- Jeopardizing relationships or job opportunities because of gambling
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, please seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a limit on how much you are willing to lose in a given time frame
- Betting Limits: Control the maximum stake per spin or bet
- Reality Checks: Receive reminders about how long you've been playing
- Self-Exclusion: Take a break from gambling by temporarily or permanently excluding yourself from your account
- Session Timers: Set automatic alerts after a certain period of play
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if you wish to stop gambling entirely
Use these tools proactively to stay in control of your gambling habits.
Support Organizations & Help Resources
If you need support, help is available. The following organisations provide free, confidential assistance for problem gambling:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (Aotearoa): Free counselling and support services for people affected by gambling problems. Phone: 0800 664 262 | Website: www.pgf.nz
- Gambling Helpline (Aotearoa): Free, confidential telephone support. Phone: 0800 664 262
- Gambling Commission (NZ): Regulatory body providing information and resources. Website: www.gambling.govt.nz
International Resources
- GamCare (United Kingdom): www.gamcare.org.uk | Phone: 0808 802 0133
- GamStop (United Kingdom): National self-exclusion scheme - www.gamstop.co.uk
- Gambling Help Online (Australia): www.gamblinghelponline.org.au | Phone: 1800 858 858
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (United States): www.ncpgambling.org | Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
- Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (Germany): Information and counselling on responsible gambling
If You Need Help
Problem gambling is a serious issue, but help is available. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling:
- Reach out to the Problem Gambling Foundation (Aotearoa) on 0800 664 262
- Visit your local counsellor or healthcare provider
- Contact a trusted family member or friend
- Use the self-exclusion tools available on this website
- Consider seeking professional mental health support
You are not alone. Support is available, and recovery is possible. Please reach out today.
This responsible gaming information is provided for educational purposes. Acacia Cliffs Lodge is committed to promoting safe and responsible gambling practices. By using this website, you acknowledge that you are of legal age and understand the risks associated with online gaming.