Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment
At Showtime Canterbury, we believe that gambling should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Online casino games are designed with a house edge, meaning the odds always favour the casino in the long run. Please gamble only with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years of age or the legal gambling age in your jurisdiction to access and use online casinos. We take underage gambling seriously and do not permit anyone under the legal age to participate. If you are under 18, please do not use our recommended platforms.
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: Keeping your gambling activity secret from family and friends
- Loss of control: Being unable to stop gambling or gamble less than intended
- Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family commitments due to gambling
- Increasing stakes: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to feel the same excitement
- Using gambling to escape: Gambling to cope with stress, anxiety, depression, or other problems
- Borrowing to gamble: Taking loans or borrowing money to fund gambling activities
- Failed attempts to quit: Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce or stop gambling
- Relationship conflicts: Arguments with family and friends about gambling habits
- Financial difficulties: Experiencing money problems as a result of gambling
Self-Help Tools & Safer Gambling Features
Most reputable online casinos offer responsible gambling tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a daily, weekly, or monthly limit on how much you can deposit
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose in a specific period
- Reality Checks: Receive reminders during gaming sessions about how long you've been playing
- Time-Out/Cool-Off Period: Take a break from gambling for a set period (hours, days, or weeks)
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from casino platforms for a specified duration
We encourage you to use these tools and set limits before you start playing.
Support Organisations & Help Resources
If you're struggling with gambling or need support, the following organisations can help:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF) – Free counselling and support services for New Zealanders affected by problem gambling
www.pgf.nz - Gamblers Anonymous NZ – Support group meetings and peer support
www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz - 1Doc3 – Problem Gambling Services – Free online counselling available 24/7
Call: 0800 642 526 or visit www.1doc3.com
International Resources
- GamCare (UK) – Free confidential support and counselling
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (UK) – National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling
www.gamstop.co.uk - Gambling Help Online (Australia) – Support for problem gambling
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) – Information and resources
www.responsiblegambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling (USA) – Help line and resources
www.ncpgambling.org
If You Need Help, Please Reach Out
Problem gambling is a serious issue, but support is available. There is no shame in asking for help. If you or someone you care about is experiencing gambling-related problems, please contact one of the organisations listed above or speak to a healthcare professional.
Remember: Seeking help early can make a real difference.