Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment

At Summit Projects Otago, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Gambling should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and never chase losses.

Age Verification

All gambling operators in New Zealand are required to ensure players are at least 18 years of age or the legal gambling age in your jurisdiction. If you are under 18, you are not permitted to place bets or participate in gambling activities. Gambling operators have a legal obligation to verify age before accepting any wagers.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognise any of the following warning signs in yourself or someone else, please seek help immediately:

• Chasing losses (gambling more to try to recover money you've lost)
• Hiding gambling activities from friends, family, or partners
• Gambling with money meant for essential expenses (bills, rent, food)
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when trying to reduce gambling
• Increasing the amount of money or time spent gambling
• Neglecting work, school, family, or social commitments due to gambling
• Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
• Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
• Lying to others about the extent of your gambling
• Using gambling as an escape from stress, depression, or anxiety

Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features

Most legitimate betting operators offer tools to help you maintain control of your gambling:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit within a specified period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Cap the amount of money you're willing to lose during a set timeframe
• Reality Checks: Receive reminders during gaming sessions about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
• Time-Out (Cool-Off Period): Take a mandatory break from gambling for a set period (hours to weeks)
• Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily ban yourself from accessing betting sites for an extended period (typically 6 months to 5 years)

Always use these tools if you feel your gambling is getting out of control.

Support Organisations & Resources

If you're struggling with gambling, professional help is available. Here are organisations that can assist:

New Zealand

• Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF) – Free, confidential support for problem gambling in New Zealand
  • Phone: 0800 664 262 (free, 24/7)
  • Website: www.pgf.nz
• Gambling Helpline – Free counselling service
  • Phone: 0800 654 655

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

Need Help?

If you believe you have a gambling problem, or if someone close to you does, please reach out for support today. Problem gambling is treatable, and help is available. You don't have to face this alone.

Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation (NZ) free helpline: 0800 664 262

Your wellbeing is important to us. Seek help early — the sooner you reach out, the sooner you can get support.