Responsible Gaming
Introduction
At Chris Does Maths, we are committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Online pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Gaming should never interfere with your work, relationships, or financial obligations. Please gamble within your means and only spend what you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
Online gaming 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 accessing any gaming sites. If you are under 18, please do not participate in online gaming.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you experience any of the following warning signs, you may be developing a gambling problem. Please seek help:
- Spending more time or money on gaming than intended
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding your gambling activities from family or friends
- Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or negative emotions
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Neglecting work, study, or personal relationships due to gaming
- Experiencing mood swings or irritability when unable to gamble
- Feeling a need to gamble with increasing amounts to achieve the same excitement
- Failed attempts to reduce or stop gambling
- Lying to loved ones about the extent of your gambling
Self-Help Tools
Most reputable online gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose during gaming sessions
- Reality Checks: Enable reminders during play to check how long you've been gaming and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming sites when you need a break
- Cooling-Off Period: Take a break from gaming for a set period before re-accessing your account
Support Organizations in New Zealand
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available:
- Problem Gambling Foundation (NZ): Free and confidential support. Phone: 0800 664 262 | Website: www.pgf.nz
- Gambling Helpline (NZ): 24/7 support service. Phone: 0800 654 655
- Samaritans (NZ): Crisis support. Phone: 1737 (call or text, free 24/7)
International Support Resources
Additional support is available through these international organizations:
- GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (UK): www.gamstop.co.uk — National self-exclusion scheme
- Gambling Help Online (Australia): www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (USA): www.ncpgambling.org
Call to Action
If you believe you have a gambling problem, please reach out for help today. Problem gambling is treatable, and support is available. Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation at 0800 664 262 or visit www.pgf.nz for confidential advice. There is no shame in seeking help — taking action is a sign of strength.
Remember: Gaming should be fun. If it stops being fun, it's time to seek support.