Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
Online pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose, and never view gambling as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The odds always favour the house, and gambling outcomes are determined by chance.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to access and use online gambling services in New Zealand. By using kaiwakasports.co.nz, you confirm that you meet this legal requirement. If you are under 18, please do not proceed.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Recognise these warning signs in yourself or others:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding gambling activities or lying about the amount spent
- Gambling with increasing amounts to achieve the same excitement
- Neglecting family, work, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
- Experiencing anxiety, irritability, or mood swings when unable to gamble
- Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Feeling a loss of control over gambling habits
If you recognise any of these signs, please seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Controls
Most reputable online casinos offer responsible gaming tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period
- Loss Limits: Cap the maximum losses you can incur
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders of how long you've been playing and money spent
- Session Time Limits: Automatically end your gaming session after a set duration
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from gambling for a period you choose
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if needed
Use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gambling habits.
Support & Help Organizations
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (NZ): www.pgf.nz — Free, confidential support and counselling services
- Gamblers Anonymous (NZ): Support meetings and peer assistance across New Zealand
- Healthline (NZ): Call 0800 611 116 for free counselling and referrals
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 (US): www.ncpgambling.org
Take Action Today
If you believe you have a problem with gambling, reach out for help now. Problem gambling is treatable, and support is available. Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation (NZ) or your local health provider. Remember: seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
In crisis? Call Healthline on 0800 611 116 (available 24/7) for immediate support.