Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income

Online pokies should only be viewed as a form of entertainment, similar to going to the movies or playing sports. Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose, and never see gambling as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and outcomes are determined by random chance.

At Canterbury Tales, we're committed to promoting responsible gambling practices and supporting the wellbeing of our community.

Age Verification

Online gambling in New Zealand is only available to individuals aged 18 years and over. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to participate in online pokies or other gambling activities.

All players must verify their age and identity before accessing our services. If you are under 18, please do not proceed.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Be aware of these warning signs that may indicate problem gambling:

• Frequently thinking about gambling or past gambling experiences
• Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same excitement
• Repeatedly trying to cut back or stop gambling without success
• Feeling anxious or irritable when trying to reduce or stop gambling
• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
• Hiding gambling activity or lying about the amount spent
• Using gambling to escape problems or relieve stress
• Neglecting work, school, family, or social responsibilities due to gambling
• Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
• Experiencing relationship or financial problems because of gambling
• Gambling with money intended for bills, rent, or essential expenses

If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone else, please seek help immediately.

Self-Help Tools

Most gambling operators offer built-in tools to help you maintain control. Consider using the following:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Establish a maximum amount you're willing to lose before stopping play
• Reality Checks: Enable popup reminders during gaming sessions to help you stay aware of time and money spent
• Session Time Limits: Set a maximum duration for each gaming session
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing gambling services
• Account Closure: Permanently close your account if you wish to stop gambling entirely

We encourage you to use these tools proactively as part of your responsible gaming strategy.

Support Organisations in New Zealand

If you're struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available. The following organisations provide confidential support:

New Zealand Resources

• Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF)
  Free, confidential support and counselling services
  Phone: 0800 664 262
  Website: www.pgf.nz
• Gamblers Anonymous
  Support groups throughout New Zealand
  Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz
• Samaritans
  Available 24/7 for crisis support
  Phone: 1100 (free call)
  Website: www.samaritans.org.nz
• 1737 Lifeline Aotearoa
  Free call or text support, 24/7
  Phone: 1737 (free call or text)
  Website: www.1737.org.nz

International Resources

• GamCare (UK)
  www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop (UK 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 (USA)
  www.ncpgambling.org

If You're Struggling, Reach Out

Problem gambling is a treatable condition, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether you're experiencing mild concerns or serious difficulties, support is available and confidential.

Don't wait—contact one of the organisations listed above today if you or someone you care about needs help.

Canterbury Tales is committed to supporting responsible gambling. For more information about our player protections and policies, please contact our support team.