Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
Online pokies and casino games should only be played as a form of entertainment with money you can afford to lose. Gambling is never a reliable way to earn money or solve financial problems. It carries real risks, and it's important to gamble responsibly and within your means.
At itathand.co.nz, we're committed to promoting safe and responsible gaming practices for all our visitors.
Age Verification
All users must be at least 18 years of age or the applicable legal age in their jurisdiction to access online gambling services in New Zealand. If you are under the legal gambling age, you must not use this website or participate in any gambling activities.
Operators are required to verify your age before allowing real-money play. This is a legal requirement designed to protect minors.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, problem gambling may be developing:
- Chasing losses: Trying to win back money you've lost by gambling more
- Hiding gambling: Concealing the amount of time or money spent gambling from family or friends
- Loss of control: Being unable to stick to spending limits or stop when you want to
- Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, family time, or other obligations due to gambling
- Borrowing to gamble: Using loans, credit cards, or borrowed money to fund gambling
- Mood changes: Becoming irritable, anxious, or depressed when unable to gamble
- Escalating stakes: Needing to bet larger amounts to achieve the same level of excitement
- Failed attempts to quit: Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce or stop gambling
- Relationship problems: Arguments with family or friends about gambling habits
- Financial difficulties: Gambling affecting your ability to pay bills or meet financial obligations
If you notice these signs, it's important to seek help as soon as possible.
Self-Help Tools & Player Protection Features
Most licensed online casinos and pokies operators offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Restrict the amount of money you're willing to lose over a set timeframe
- Session Time Limits: Set a timer to remind you when you've been playing for a certain duration
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic pop-up reminders showing your time spent and money wagered
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from your account for a period of time (typically 24 hours to several years)
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if you wish to stop gambling entirely
Take advantage of these tools. They're designed to help you play safely and stay in control.
Support & Help Resources
If you're struggling with gambling, professional support is available. Here are trusted organisations that can help:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF) – Free, confidential support and counselling
Phone: 0800 664 262 (24/7)
Website: www.pgf.nz
Email: [email protected] - Gambling Helpline – Free helpline providing support and information
Phone: 0800 654 655
Website: www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz - Samaritans – Crisis support (available 24/7)
Phone: 0800 726 666
Website: www.samaritans.org.nz
International Support Services
- GamCare (UK) – Confidential gambling support
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (UK) – National self-exclusion scheme
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk - Gambling Help Online (Australia) – Free counselling and support
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) – Evidence-based resources and support
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling (USA) – Helpline and resources
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
There is no shame in seeking help if gambling is becoming a problem. Trained counsellors and support services are available to assist you, and recovery is possible. Don't wait—if you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, contact one of the support organisations above.
In New Zealand, call the Problem Gambling Foundation on 0800 664 262 (24/7) for confidential support.
Remember: Your wellbeing matters. Gambling should always be fun and controlled—never stressful or damaging.