Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
At Blend Wellness, 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. Set a budget you can afford to lose, treat any winnings as a bonus, and remember that the house always has a mathematical edge.
Age Verification & Legal Requirements
Online gambling in New Zealand is only available to persons aged 18 years and over. By accessing our site, you confirm that you are of legal age to participate in online gaming activities in your jurisdiction. We take age verification seriously and reserve the right to request proof of age at any time.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following behaviours in yourself or someone you know, problem gambling may be developing:
- Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
- Chasing losses by gambling with more money to recover what was lost
- Hiding gambling activity or lying about the amount wagered
- Feeling anxious or irritable when unable to gamble
- Gambling to escape problems, stress, or difficult emotions
- Borrowing money to fund gambling activities
- Neglecting work, study, family, or relationships due to gambling
- Failed attempts to cut down or stop gambling
- Experiencing financial difficulties or debt as a result of gambling
Self-Help Tools & Controls
Many online gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit in a given timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Establish a maximum amount you're comfortable losing before stopping play
- Reality Checks: Enable regular reminders showing how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling platforms
- Session Time Limits: Set automatic session timeouts to prevent extended play
- Cooling-Off Periods: Take a break from gambling for a specified duration
Support Organisations & Resources
If you're struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Please reach out to one of these organisations:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation – Free counselling and support services across New Zealand
www.problemgambling.nz
Phone: 0800 664 262 (free call) - Gambling Helpline – 24/7 confidential support
Phone: 0800 654 655
Text: 4766 (free)
Australia (Nearby Region)
- Gambling Help Online
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
International Resources
- GamCare (United Kingdom)
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (United Kingdom)
www.gamstop.co.uk - National Council on Problem Gambling (United States)
www.ncpgambling.org - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
www.responsiblegambling.org
If You Need Help
Problem gambling is treatable. You are not alone, and support is available. If you or someone you care about is struggling with gambling, please don't hesitate to reach out to one of the organisations listed above. Early intervention can make a significant difference.
Remember: Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation or Gambling Helpline today to speak with a trained counsellor who can assist you on your path to recovery.