Responsible Gaming

Gambling Should Be Entertainment

At dunedinit.org.nz, we believe that gambling should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, similar to going to the movies or playing sport. It should never be considered as a way to earn money, pay bills, or solve financial problems.

When you play at online casinos using Neosurf or any other payment method, please remember that the house always has a mathematical advantage. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and set strict limits before you start playing.

Age Verification

Online gambling is strictly reserved for individuals who are 18 years of age or older (or the legal gambling age in your jurisdiction, whichever is higher).

If you are under the legal age to gamble, we encourage you to avoid online casinos entirely. Gambling at a young age can lead to serious problems, including addiction and financial hardship.

Parents and guardians: Please monitor your children's online activity and use parental controls to prevent access to gambling websites.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. Be honest with yourself and watch for these warning signs:

• Chasing losses: Trying to win back money you've lost by gambling more
• Hiding gambling: Concealing the amount of time or money you spend gambling from family and friends
• Neglecting responsibilities: Skipping work, school, or family obligations to gamble
• Increasing stakes: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to get the same excitement
• Failed attempts to quit: Repeatedly trying and failing to cut back or stop gambling
• Financial problems: Borrowing money, maxing out credit cards, or facing debt due to gambling
• Mood changes: Becoming irritable, anxious, or depressed when unable to gamble
• Loss of control: Gambling longer or with more money than intended
• Using gambling to escape: Gambling to forget about problems or difficult emotions
• Relationship strain: Arguments with loved ones about gambling habits

If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, it's important to seek help immediately.

Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features

Most reputable online casinos offer built-in tools to help you gamble responsibly:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit each day, week, or month
• Loss Limits: Restrict the maximum amount you're willing to lose during a session
• Reality Checks: Receive regular notifications reminding you how long you've been playing
• Session Time Limits: Automatically log out after a set period of time
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently ban yourself from accessing your account
• Take a Break: Pause your account for a cooling-off period
• Account Closure: Permanently close your account if you wish to stop gambling

Use these tools proactively. They are designed to help you maintain control and protect your wellbeing.

Support & Help Organizations

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Please reach out to one of these organisations:

Australia (Primary)

• Gambling Help Online – Free counselling and support for people affected by gambling problems in Australia
  www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
  Phone: 1800 858 858 (toll-free, confidential)
• Lifeline Australia – Crisis support and suicide prevention
  Phone: 13 11 14 (24/7, free, confidential)

Other Regions

• United Kingdom – GamCare
  www.gamcare.org.uk
• United Kingdom – GamStop (National Self-Exclusion Scheme)
  www.gamstop.co.uk
• Canada – Responsible Gambling Council
  www.responsiblegambling.org
• United States – National Council on Problem Gambling
  www.ncpgambling.org

Note: While dunedinit.org.nz is based in New Zealand, we recognise that our audience may be located in Australia or other jurisdictions. Please contact the support organisation relevant to your location.

If You Need Help

There is no shame in asking for help. Problem gambling is a recognised health issue, and recovery is possible with the right support.

Take action today:

• Reach out to a support organisation listed above
• Talk to a trusted family member or friend
• Speak with your doctor or a mental health professional
• Use self-exclusion tools immediately if you're struggling
• Set strict limits before you gamble

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