Responsible Gaming

Introduction

At Festival of Flowers, we are committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Online casinos should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Gaming should always be fun and within your means – never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose.

Age Verification

Online gambling in New Zealand is only available to individuals aged 18 years and older. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet this legal requirement before participating in any gaming activities. All licensed operators are required to verify player age and identity.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may indicate problem gambling:

• Chasing losses – gambling more to recover money you've lost
• Hiding gambling activities from family, friends, or partners
• Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
• Feeling anxious or irritable when unable to gamble
• Neglecting work, school, family, or other responsibilities
• Borrowing money or accumulating debt to fund gambling
• Failed attempts to reduce or stop gambling
• Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
• Lying about the extent of your gambling involvement

Self-Help Tools & Controls

Most reputable online casinos provide responsible gaming tools to help you maintain control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose
• Session Time Limits: Restrict how long you can play in one session
• Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders about your playing time and spend
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from an operator's platform

Use these tools proactively to ensure gaming remains enjoyable and within your control.

Support Resources for New Zealand

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Please reach out to these support organisations:

New Zealand

• Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF) – Free, confidential support for problem gambling
  Phone: 0800 664 262 (free call)
  Website: www.pgf.nz
• Gambling Helpline – 24/7 support line
  Phone: 0800 006 886
  Free, anonymous, and confidential

International Resources

• GamCare (UK) – www.gamcare.org.uk – Support across UK and online
• GamStop (UK) – www.gamstop.co.uk – National self-exclusion scheme
• Gambling Help Online (Australia) – www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) – www.responsiblegambling.org
• National Council on Problem Gambling (USA) – www.ncpgambling.org

Take Action Today

If you think you may have a problem with gambling, please seek help immediately. There is no shame in reaching out – problem gambling is a recognised condition, and support services are available to help you regain control. Contact one of the organisations above, speak to a trusted friend or family member, or consult your GP.

Remember: Gaming should be fun. If it stops being fun, it's time to seek help.