Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
At Manuakau Heads Lighthouse, we believe that online casino gaming should only ever be viewed as entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Like any form of entertainment, it should only be enjoyed with money you can afford to lose.
If you find yourself gambling to make money, chase losses, or use gambling to escape problems, please reach out for support immediately.
Age Verification
Online casino gaming in New Zealand is strictly for individuals aged 18 years and over. By using any casino platform, you confirm that you are at least 18 years of age and meet all legal requirements to participate in online gambling in your jurisdiction.
Gambling is illegal for minors. If you are under 18, please do not attempt to access casino services.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognise any of these warning signs, it may be time to seek help:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to win back money
- Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
- Hiding gambling activities or lying about the amount spent
- Feeling anxious or irritable when unable to gamble
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts for the same excitement
- Neglecting family, work, or social responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money or accruing debt to fund gambling
- Unsuccessful attempts to reduce or stop gambling
- Using gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or depression
- Friends or family expressing concern about your gambling
If you've ticked any of these boxes, professional support is available and can make a real difference.
Self-Help Tools
Most responsible casino operators provide tools to help you maintain control. These include:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit in a day, week, or month
- Loss Limits: Cap the amount you're prepared to lose during a set period
- Session Time Limits: Set reminders to take breaks from gaming
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic notifications of how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from casino platforms
These tools are designed to help you gamble responsibly. Use them proactively and don't hesitate to adjust your limits if needed.
Support Organisations
If you're struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available 24/7. The following organisations provide confidential support:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (NZ): Free counselling and support services. Website: www.pgf.nz | Phone: 0800 664 262
- Gamblers Anonymous (NZ): Support groups and peer counselling. Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz
International Resources
- Australia – Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- United Kingdom – GamCare: www.gamcare.org.uk
- United Kingdom – GamStop: www.gamstop.co.uk
- Canada – Responsible Gambling Council: www.responsiblegambling.org
- United States – National Council on Problem Gambling: www.ncpgambling.org
- Germany – Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA): www.bzga.de
All these services are confidential, non-judgmental, and free to access. There is no shame in seeking help.
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
Problem gambling affects real people and real families. If you or someone you know is struggling, professional support is just a phone call or click away.
Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation (NZ) on 0800 664 262 or visit www.pgf.nz – they're here to help.
Recovery is possible, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.