Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment

At The Garnet Room, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Online pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Please gamble only with money you can afford to lose, and always set limits before you play.

Age Verification

You must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gaming in New Zealand. We take age verification seriously and reserve the right to request proof of identity. If you are under 18, please do not access our gaming services.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

If you recognise any of the following warning signs in your own behaviour, it may be time to seek help:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
• Hiding or downplaying the amount of time or money spent gambling
• Neglecting family, work, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
• Borrowing money to fund gambling activities
• Experiencing mood swings or irritability when unable to gamble
• Feeling a constant urge to gamble with increasing amounts of money
• Failed attempts to reduce or stop gambling
• Using gambling as an escape from stress, anxiety, or depression
• Lying to family or friends about gambling habits
• Experiencing financial difficulties or debt related to gambling

Self-Help Tools & Safeguards

Most reputable online gaming platforms offer tools to help you stay in control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit within a specified period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Cap the amount of money you're prepared to lose
• Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders of how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming platforms
• Session Timeouts: Set automatic logout periods to prevent extended gaming sessions

Take advantage of these tools when registering and before each gaming session.

Support Organizations

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. The following organisations provide free, confidential support:

New Zealand

• Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF) – Free counselling and support services across New Zealand
  Phone: 0800 654 655 (free call)
  Website: www.pgf.nz
• Gambling Helpline – 24/7 confidential support
  Phone: 0800 6 GAMBLE (0800 6 42625)
  Website: www.gambling.org.nz

International Support

• 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 (US) – www.ncpgambling.org

If You Need Help

If you think you may have a problem with gambling, please reach out to one of the support organisations listed above. Speaking to someone confidentially is a positive first step, and help is available.

Remember: There is no shame in seeking support. Problem gambling is a treatable condition, and recovery is possible.