Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment

Online pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While playing can be fun, it's important to understand that the house always has an edge, and you should only gamble with money you can afford to lose.

Set realistic expectations: treat any winnings as a bonus, not an income source, and budget for gaming as you would any other entertainment activity.

Age Verification

Online gambling in New Zealand is only available to individuals aged 18 years and older. This is a legal requirement designed to protect young people from the potential harms of gambling.

By accessing lushlashes.co.nz, you confirm that you are at least 18 years of age and meet all local legal requirements to participate in online gambling activities.

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's time to seek help:

• Chasing losses: Continuing to gamble to recover money you've lost
• Hiding gambling activity: Being secretive about how much time or money you're spending on gambling
• Increasing stakes: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to achieve the same level of excitement
• Loss of control: Unable to stick to the limits you've set for yourself
• Neglecting responsibilities: Gambling is affecting your work, study, family, or relationships
• Financial strain: Borrowing money to gamble or experiencing financial difficulties due to gambling
• Mood changes: Becoming irritable, anxious, or depressed when unable to gamble
• Escape behaviour: Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions

If you've noticed any of these signs, please reach out for support immediately.

Self-Help Tools & Safer Gambling Features

Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control of your gambling. Consider using these features:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Cap the amount of money you're willing to lose during a gaming session
• Time Limits: Set reminders or automatic session timeouts to prevent extended play
• Reality Checks: Enable notifications at regular intervals to reflect on your gambling activity
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing gambling platforms

These tools are most effective when used proactively as part of a broader responsible gaming strategy.

Support Organisations & Help Resources

If you're struggling with problem gambling, support is available. The following organisations offer confidential, free assistance:

New Zealand

• Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF)
  Telephone: 0800 664 262 (free call)
  Website: www.pgf.nz
  Offers counselling, support groups, and resources for people affected by problem gambling.

Australia

• Gambling Help Online
  Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
  Provides confidential counselling and self-help tools for problem gambling.

United Kingdom

• GamCare
  Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
  Free counselling and support for problem gamblers and their families.
• GamStop
  Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
  National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling in the UK.

Canada

• Responsible Gambling Council
  Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
  Resources and support for problem gambling across Canada.

United States

• National Council on Problem Gambling
  Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
  Website: www.ncpgambling.org
  Confidential helpline and treatment referrals for problem gambling.

Germany

• Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA)
  Telephone: 0800 137 27 00
  Resources and counselling for gambling-related issues in Germany.

If You Need Help, Reach Out Today

Problem gambling is a serious issue, but recovery is possible with the right support. Whether you're experiencing difficulties yourself or concerned about someone else, there's no shame in seeking help.

Don't wait until the situation worsens. Contact one of the support organisations listed above. All services are confidential, free, and staffed by trained professionals who understand problem gambling.

Your wellbeing is more important than any game. If you have a problem with gambling, please take action today.