Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment

At Heart and Soul Healing, we believe that online pokies and casino games should be enjoyed purely as entertainment. Gambling should never be viewed as a way to earn money, solve financial problems, or supplement your income. Always gamble only with money you can afford to lose, and set strict limits on how much time and money you spend.

Age Verification

You must be 18 years of age or older to gamble in New Zealand. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to participate in gambling activities. If you are under the legal gambling age, please do not use our services. Parents and guardians are encouraged to monitor online activity and discuss the risks of gambling with young people.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Be aware of the following warning signs that may indicate problem gambling:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
• Hiding gambling activities from family, friends, or partners
• Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
• Neglecting work, study, relationships, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
• Experiencing mood swings, anxiety, or irritability when unable to gamble
• Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
• Lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
• Feeling a compulsive urge to gamble to feel excitement or relief from stress
• Failed attempts to reduce or stop gambling
• Using gambling as an escape from problems or difficult emotions

If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, please seek help immediately.

Self-Help Tools and Safer Gambling Features

Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control over your gambling:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Restrict the maximum amount of money you are willing to lose in a session or time period
• Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders of how long you have been playing and how much money you have spent
• Session Time Limits: Set automatic time limits for your gaming sessions
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling platforms
• Account Closure: Request permanent closure of your gaming account

Use these tools proactively to maintain control and enjoy gambling responsibly.

Support Organisations and Help Resources

If you are struggling with gambling, a range of professional support services are available to help you:

New Zealand

• Problem Gambling Foundation: Free, confidential support for people affected by problem gambling. Available 24/7.
  Phone: 0800 664 262 | Website: www.pgf.nz
• Gamblers Anonymous New Zealand: Peer support meetings and resources for people struggling with gambling addiction.
  Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz

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

If You Need Help

If you believe you may have a gambling problem, please reach out for support immediately. There is no shame in asking for help — problem gambling is a health issue that affects many people, and professional support is available and effective.

Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation on 0800 664 262 (free call, available 24/7) or visit www.pgf.nz for confidential advice and support.

Remember: You are not alone, and help is always available.