Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
At handover.nz, we believe online casino gaming should be enjoyed as entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While online casinos can provide enjoyable experiences, it's important to gamble responsibly and within your means.
Always remember: the house has an edge, and you should only wager money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
Online gambling in New Zealand is only available to individuals aged 18 years and over. All players must verify their age before creating an account or accessing any gaming services. If you are under 18, please do not attempt to gamble online.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Do you recognize any of these warning signs in your gambling behaviour?
- Chasing losses by gambling with more money to recover what you've lost
- Gambling with money intended for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
- Hiding your gambling activities or lying about how much you gamble
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Gambling for longer periods than intended
- Neglecting family, work, or social responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money to fund gambling activities
- Continuing to gamble despite experiencing financial or personal harm
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems or relieve stress
If you've checked any of these boxes, it may be time to seek support.
Self-Help Tools & Features
Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control of your gambling:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit over a specified period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Cap the amount of money you can lose in a given timeframe
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders of how long you've been playing and how much you've wagered
- Time-Out/Cool-Off Periods: Temporarily suspend your account for a break (hours, days, or weeks)
- Self-Exclusion: Permanently or temporarily exclude yourself from a casino or multiple casinos
Take advantage of these tools and use them proactively to stay in control of your gaming.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available:
New Zealand
- Gambling Helpline (NZ): Free, confidential support available 24/7 • Call 0800 654 655 or visit www.gamblingsupport.org.nz
- Problem Gambling Foundation (NZ): Treatment and support services • www.pgf.nz
International Resources
- GamCare (UK): Free counseling and support • www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (UK): National self-exclusion scheme • www.gamstop.co.uk
- Gambling Help Online (Australia): Counseling and information • www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): Evidence-based resources • www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (US): Referrals and support • www.ncpgambling.org
If You Need Help
Problem gambling is a serious issue, but recovery is possible. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
If you're struggling with gambling:
- Contact the Gambling Helpline (NZ) on 0800 654 655
- Speak to a trusted friend, family member, or healthcare provider
- Use your casino's self-exclusion tools immediately
- Explore professional counseling services in your area
Resources are available to support you every step of the way.
handover.nz is committed to promoting responsible gaming. This information is provided for harm reduction purposes. If you experience problem gambling, please seek professional help immediately.