Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While gaming can be fun and exciting, it's important to approach it with the right mindset and within your means.
Remember: the house always has an edge. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and never chase losses or bet beyond your budget.
Age Verification
Gaming is strictly for persons aged 18 years and over in New Zealand. By accessing gaming services through stephenwebbbuilders.co.nz, you confirm that you are of legal age to participate in gambling activities in your jurisdiction.
If you are under 18, please do not participate in online gaming. Underage gambling can lead to serious harm and is illegal.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can affect anyone. If you recognize any of the following warning signs in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek help:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding gambling activities or the amount spent from family and friends
- Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts to feel the same excitement
- Failed attempts to cut down or control gambling
- Neglecting work, study, family, or social responsibilities
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Lying to others about the extent of gambling
- Gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
If you experience any of these signs, reach out for support immediately.
Self-Help Tools and Controls
Most reputable online gaming platforms offer built-in tools to help you gamble responsibly. These include:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose in a given timeframe
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Session Time Limits: Automatically log out after a set period of play
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming platforms
- Account Cooling-Off Period: Take a break from gaming for a set duration
Use these tools proactively to maintain control and protect your wellbeing.
Support Organizations and Resources
If you're struggling with problem gambling, help is available. The following organizations provide free, confidential support:
New Zealand
- Gambling Helpline (NZ): 0800 654 655 (free call/text) — Available 24/7. Visit www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
- Problem Gambling Foundation (NZ): www.pgf.nz — Support and resources for problem gambling
International Resources
- 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
These organizations offer confidential support, counseling, and resources at no cost.
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
Problem gambling is a serious issue that affects thousands of people. Recovery is possible with the right support. Don't wait until the problem gets worse—contact the Gambling Helpline (NZ) or one of the organizations above today.
Gambling Helpline (NZ): 0800 654 655 — Free, confidential, available 24/7
Talk to someone you trust: a family member, friend, counselor, or healthcare provider. You don't have to face this alone.
stephenwebbbuilders.co.nz is committed to promoting responsible gaming. We support your right to enjoy gaming responsibly and encourage all players to use the tools and resources available to maintain control. Gambling should never jeopardize your health, relationships, finances, or wellbeing.