Responsible Gaming
Introduction
At Kentish Hotel, we believe that online pokies should be enjoyed as entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Gaming should be fun, exciting, and within your means. If you find yourself gambling more than intended or chasing losses, it's time to take action.
Age Verification
Online pokies in New Zealand are only available to players aged 18 years and over. We are committed to preventing underage gambling. If you are under 18, please do not access or use our gaming services. Parents and guardians are encouraged to use parental controls to protect young people from accessing gambling websites.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognize any of these warning signs in yourself or someone you know, seek help immediately:
- Gambling with money you can't afford to lose
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding gambling activities or lying about the amount spent
- Neglecting family, friends, work, or other responsibilities
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts to feel the same excitement
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Failed attempts to reduce or stop gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative feelings
- Relationship conflicts related to gambling
Self-Help Tools
Most reputable online gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control. These include:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a cap on how much you're willing to lose
- Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders of how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Time Limits: Set session duration limits to prevent extended gambling periods
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming platforms
- Account Closure: Close your account if you decide to stop gambling entirely
Support Organizations in New Zealand
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, the following organizations provide confidential support and resources:
New Zealand Organizations
-
Problem Gambling Foundation
Website: www.problemgambling.nz
Helpline: 0800 664 262 (free, confidential)
Email support available -
Gambling Helpline (Samaritans)
Helpline: 0800 654 654
Available 24/7, free and confidential
International Support Resources
-
GamCare (UK)
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
Free support for problem gamblers -
GamStop (UK)
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
National self-exclusion scheme -
Gambling Help Online (Australia)
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Information and support services -
Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
Research and education resources -
National Council on Problem Gambling (USA)
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
Call to Action
If you believe you have a problem with gambling, please seek help today. There is no shame in reaching out, and support is available. Contact one of the organizations listed above—they are staffed by trained professionals who understand problem gambling and can provide confidential assistance.
Remember: Gambling should be fun. If it's not, stop and seek help.