Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
At bsm.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 make money, pay bills, or solve financial problems. Always gamble with money you can afford to lose, and only when you're in a positive state of mind.
Age Verification
Online casino gaming in New Zealand is strictly reserved for individuals aged 18 years and older. It is illegal for minors to participate in gambling activities. If you are under 18, please do not use casino platforms.
All reputable online casinos require age verification before account creation and first withdrawal. Provide accurate information during registration.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognize any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek help:
- Constantly 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
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Lying to family, friends, or healthcare providers about gambling activities
- Jeopardizing important relationships, jobs, or education due to gambling
- Relying on others for money to pay debts caused by gambling
- Experiencing anxiety, depression, or irritability when not gambling
- Using gambling as an escape from problems or negative emotions
- Unsuccessful attempts to hide gambling habits from loved ones
If you experience any of these signs, please reach out for support immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Controls
Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control over your gaming:
- Deposit Limits: Set a daily, weekly, or monthly limit on how much you can deposit into your account
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose during a specific timeframe
- Betting Limits: Restrict the size of individual bets you can place
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic notifications reminding you how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Time-Out: Take a temporary break from your account for hours, days, or weeks without closing it permanently
- Self-Exclusion: Permanently close your account for an extended period if you feel your gambling is out of control
Use these tools proactively. Setting limits before you start playing is an effective way to prevent problem gambling.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you're struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available. Here are organizations that can provide confidential support:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF) – Free, confidential counselling and support for New Zealand residents
www.pgf.nz
Helpline: 0800 664 262 (free call) - Gamblers Anonymous – Support meetings and peer help
www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz
International Resources
- GamCare (United Kingdom) – www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (United Kingdom) – 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 Need Help
Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you believe you or someone you know has a problem with gambling, please reach out to one of the organizations above. They provide confidential, judgment-free support.
Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF) today:
- Phone: 0800 664 262 (available during business hours)
- Website: www.pgf.nz
- Email support and online counselling options are also available
Remember: You are not alone, and help is available.
Important Disclaimer: bsm.org.nz is committed to responsible gaming. We encourage all players to gamble responsibly and within their means. If you experience problem gambling, please seek professional help immediately. All information on this site is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice.