Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online casino gaming should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While gaming can be fun and exciting, it's important to approach it responsibly and within your means.
Remember: the house always has an edge, and there is no guaranteed way to win. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
In New Zealand, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online casino gaming. It is illegal for anyone under the legal age to gamble online or in physical establishments.
shantimat.co.nz is committed to preventing underage gambling. We require all users to verify their age before accessing any gaming platforms or placing bets.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek help:
- Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding or lying about gambling habits and expenditure
- Neglecting family, work, or social responsibilities due to gambling
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
- Experiencing relationship conflicts due to gambling
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you stay in control of your gaming:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Cap the amount of money you're willing to lose during a gaming session
- Spending Limits: Control how much you spend on gaming activities
- Reality Checks: Receive reminders during gaming sessions about how long you've been playing and money spent
- Session Time Limits: Set a timer for how long you will play in one session
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing gaming platforms
- Account Closure: Request permanent closure of your gaming account
Use these tools actively. They are designed to help you maintain control and gamble responsibly.
Support Organisations & Help Resources
If you or someone you care about is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Here are trusted organisations that provide free, confidential support:
New Zealand
- Gambling Helpline (Aotearoa): Free, confidential telephone counselling and support for problem gambling in New Zealand
www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
Phone: 0800 654 655 (available 24/7) - Problem Gambling Foundation: Provides resources, support, and information for those affected by problem gambling
www.pgf.nz
International Resources
- GamCare (United Kingdom): Specialises in problem gambling support and therapy
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (United Kingdom): National self-exclusion scheme allowing you to self-exclude from all licensed online gambling operators
www.gamstop.co.uk - Gambling Help Online (Australia): Free counselling and support for problem gambling
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): Evidence-based information and resources for gambling in Canada
www.responsiblegambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling (United States): Confidential helpline and support resources
www.ncpgambling.org
If You Need Help
There is no shame in seeking help. Problem gambling is a treatable condition, and support is available to you and your loved ones.
If you believe you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please reach out to one of the support organisations listed above. Trained counsellors are available to listen, provide advice, and help you take control of your gaming.
Contact the Gambling Helpline (Aotearoa) today:
Phone: 0800 654 655 (free, confidential, 24/7)
Website: www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
Take the first step towards recovery. Help is just a call away.