Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to make money or solve financial problems. Please remember that all casino games are games of chance, and the house always has a mathematical edge. Gamble only with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to access and use online gaming services in New Zealand. festivalofcycling.co.nz is committed to preventing underage gambling. If you are under 18, please do not proceed.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you experience any of the following, you may have a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover lost money
- Hiding your gambling or being secretive about how much you gamble
- Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
- Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts
- Neglecting family, work, or other responsibilities due to gambling
- Experiencing anxiety, stress, or mood changes related to gambling
- Being unable to stop or reduce gambling despite wanting to
- Gambling to escape problems or negative feelings
- Failed attempts to control or cut back on gambling
- Lying to family or friends about gambling activities
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, help is available.
Self-Help Tools
Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you gamble responsibly:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose during a gaming session
- Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders during play about how long and how much you've been playing
- Time-Out/Cool-Off Periods: Take a break from your account for a set period (days to weeks)
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently close your account and exclude yourself from all gaming services
Use these tools to maintain control of your gaming and keep it enjoyable.
Support Organisations
If you need help with problem gambling, the following organisations provide free, confidential support:
New Zealand
- Gambling Helpline – Free helpline and online support for problem gambling in New Zealand. Available 24/7.
- Problem Gambling Foundation – Provides treatment and support services for problem gambling across New Zealand.
International Support Services
- GamCare (UK) – www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (UK Self-Exclusion) – 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
All support services are confidential and free to use.
If You Need Help
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, please reach out for support today. Problem gambling is treatable, and help is available. There is no shame in asking for assistance—many people have successfully overcome gambling problems with proper support.
Contact a local gambling helpline or organisation listed above. They have trained counsellors ready to help you on your journey to recovery.