Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
At Ocean Books, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Online casinos should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, never as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Always gamble within your means and only with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gambling in New Zealand. All reputable online casinos require age verification before allowing access to gambling services. If you're under 18, gambling is not permitted.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Be aware of these warning signs that may indicate a problem with gambling:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
- Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
- Feeling anxious or irritable when unable to gamble
- Gambling for longer periods than intended
- Neglecting work, study, or relationships due to gambling
- Borrowing money to fund gambling activities
- Failed attempts to reduce or stop gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
- Lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
If you recognise any of these signs in your behaviour, it's important to seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Player Protection Features
Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Cap the amount you're willing to lose during a gaming session
- Reality Checks: Receive reminders during play about how long you've been gambling and how much you've wagered
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from a casino for a set period
- Session Time Limits: Set a timer to limit how long you play in one sitting
- Account Cooling-Off Period: Request a temporary account suspension to take a break
Use these tools proactively to maintain control of your gambling activity.
Support Organizations in New Zealand & Internationally
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF) – Free, confidential support and counselling
- Phone: 0800 664 262
- Website: www.problemgambling.nz
- Gambling Helpline – 24/7 support
- Phone: 0800 654 655
International Support Resources
- GamCare (UK) – Free support, advice, and counselling
- GamStop (UK) – National self-exclusion scheme
- Gambling Help Online (Australia)
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
- National Council on Problem Gambling (USA)
If You Need Help, Reach Out
Problem gambling is a serious issue that affects many people. There is no shame in seeking help. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, please contact one of the support organisations listed above. They offer free, confidential assistance and can provide resources to help you regain control.
In New Zealand, contact the Problem Gambling Foundation on 0800 664 262 or visit www.problemgambling.nz.