Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income

At Waterfront Nelson, we believe online casino gaming should be enjoyable entertainment only. It should never be viewed as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Casino games are designed with a house edge, meaning the odds always favour the operator in the long term.

Please gamble responsibly and only with money you can afford to lose. If you find yourself struggling to control your gambling, help is available.

Age Verification

Online casino gaming in New Zealand is only available to individuals aged 18 years or older. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet this age requirement before participating in any gaming activities.

All reputable online casinos require identity verification before allowing deposits or withdrawals. Never provide your account details to another person, and never attempt to bypass age restrictions.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Do you recognise any of these warning signs in your behaviour?

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
• Spending more time or money on gaming than intended
• Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, food, bills)
• Hiding gambling activity or lying about how much you gamble
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when unable to gamble
• Using gaming to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
• Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
• Neglecting work, study, family, or relationships due to gambling
• Failed attempts to reduce or stop gambling
• Friends or family expressing concern about your gaming habits

If you've recognised several of these signs, it may be time to seek support.

Self-Help Tools and Player Protections

Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose during a gaming session
• Reality Checks: Receive notifications during play to remind you how long you've been gaming
• Session Time Limits: Automatically end your gaming session after a set period
• Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from your account for a specified duration (typically 6 months or longer)
• Account Pause: Temporarily suspend your account without full exclusion

These tools are most effective when used proactively, before problems develop. We encourage all players to utilise them.

Support Organisations for New Zealand and Beyond

If you're struggling with gambling, confidential support is available. These organisations can help:

New Zealand

• Problem Gambling Foundation — Free, confidential support and counselling
  Helpline: 0800 664 262
  Website: www.problemgambling.nz
• Gamblers Anonymous New Zealand — Peer support and recovery meetings
  Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz

International Support (for players accessing from other regions)

• GamCare (UK) — Counselling and support
  Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop (UK) — National self-exclusion scheme
  Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
• Gambling Help Online (Australia) — Counselling and information
  Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) — Resources and support
  Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
• National Council on Problem Gambling (USA) — Helpline and resources
  Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
  Website: www.ncpgambling.org

All support services listed are confidential, non-judgmental, and free to access.

If You Need Help, Reach Out Today

Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Problem gambling is treatable, and recovery is possible with the right support.

If gambling is causing you concern, contact the Problem Gambling Foundation on 0800 664 262 or visit www.problemgambling.nz.

You can also speak confidentially with your doctor, a family member, or a trusted friend. Many people have recovered from gambling problems — you can too.