Responsible Gaming
Our Commitment to Responsible Gambling
At Waikato Markets, we're committed to promoting responsible gambling practices. Gambling should be enjoyed as entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. We encourage all players to gamble within their means and to seek help if gambling becomes a concern.
Age Verification
All online betting and casino services in New Zealand are strictly for individuals aged 18 years and over. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to participate in gambling activities. By using our affiliated betting sites, you confirm that you are of legal age to gamble in your jurisdiction.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Please be aware of the following warning signs that may indicate a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding gambling activities or lying about the amount of time and money spent
- Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, food, bills)
- Neglecting family, work, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when trying to reduce gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts
- Gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
- Experiencing relationship conflicts due to gambling habits
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
Self-Help Tools
Most reputable betting sites offer built-in tools to help you maintain control of your gambling:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Restrict the amount of money you're willing to lose over a set period
- Reality Checks: Enable notifications reminding you how long you've been gambling and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling sites for a period you choose
- Account Restrictions: Reduce betting limits or disable certain features on your account
We recommend taking advantage of these tools when setting up your account on any betting platform.
Support Organizations in New Zealand
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available:
- Problem Gambling Foundation (Aotearoa New Zealand)
Telephone: 0800 654 655 (free and confidential)
Website: www.pgf.nz - Gamblers Anonymous (New Zealand)
Provides peer support and recovery meetings across NZ
Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz - Samaritans Aotearoa New Zealand
Telephone: 1737 (call or text, free 24/7)
Website: www.1737.org.nz - Gambling Help Online (Australia)
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
International Support Resources
Additional support organizations for reference:
- GamCare (United Kingdom) – www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (United Kingdom) – www.gamstop.co.uk
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) – www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (United States) – www.ncpgambling.org
Take Action Today
If you have a problem with gambling, please seek help immediately. Problem gambling can have serious consequences for your financial health, relationships, and mental wellbeing. Support is available, and recovery is possible. Reach out to the organizations listed above – they are staffed by trained professionals who can provide confidential assistance.
Remember: gambling should be fun and entertaining. If it stops being enjoyable or is causing harm, it's time to ask for help.