Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment

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

At christmasstar.co.nz, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming and supporting our players' wellbeing.

Age Verification

Online gambling in New Zealand is only available to players aged 18 years and older. We take age verification seriously and require all players to confirm their age when registering an account. If you are under 18, please do not attempt to gamble online.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognise any of the following warning signs in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek help:

• Spending more money or time gambling than intended
• Chasing losses by gambling more to try to win money back
• Neglecting family, work, or other responsibilities due to gambling
• Hiding gambling activity from family or friends
• Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when not gambling
• Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop gambling
• Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
• Lying about the extent of your gambling
• Experiencing financial difficulties due to gambling

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

Self-Help Tools & Features

christmasstar.co.nz offers a range of tools to help you maintain control over your gaming:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit within a specified period (daily, weekly, or monthly).
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're prepared to lose during a gaming session.
• Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders during your play session showing how long you've been playing and how much you've spent.
• Session Time Limits: Automatically end your session after a set period of time.
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from your account to take a break from gambling.

To access these tools, visit your account settings or contact our customer support team.

Support Organisations

If you need help, support is available. Here are organisations that can provide assistance:

New Zealand

• Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF) – Free, confidential support and counselling services for problem gambling in New Zealand.
  Phone: 0800 664 262 | www.pgf.nz
• Gamblers Anonymous (NZ) – Peer support meetings and recovery programmes.
  www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz
• 1Doc3 Mental Health Services – Free online counselling and support.
  www.1doc3.co.nz

International Support Services

• Australia: Gambling Help Online – www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• United Kingdom: GamCare – www.gamcare.org.uk | GamStop – www.gamstop.co.uk
• Canada: Responsible Gambling Council – www.responsiblegambling.org
• United States: National Council on Problem Gambling – www.ncpgambling.org

Need Help? Take Action Today

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, please don't hesitate to reach out. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. The organisations listed above provide confidential, non-judgmental support.

Remember: You are not alone, and help is available.

Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation on 0800 664 262 for free support in New Zealand, or visit their website at www.pgf.nz.