Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment

Online casino gaming should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Like any form of entertainment, it carries costs and risks. Always gamble within your means and never bet more than you can afford to lose.

At Almond Backpackers, we are committed to promoting responsible gaming practices and supporting the wellbeing of our users.

Age Verification

Online gambling in New Zealand is strictly for adults aged 18 years and over. You must be at least 18 years old to access casino services. It is illegal for minors to gamble online. All users are required to verify their age during registration.

If you are under 18, please do not access online casino platforms.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

If you experience any of the following, you may be developing a gambling problem. Please seek help:

• Chasing losses: Gambling more to try to recover money you've lost
• Loss of control: Unable to stick to time or money limits you set
• Hiding gambling: Concealing the extent of your gambling from family or friends
• Neglecting responsibilities: Gambling is affecting work, study, or family commitments
• Borrowing to gamble: Taking loans or using credit to fund gambling
• Emotional dependence: Gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
• Preoccupation: Constantly thinking about gambling or planning the next session
• Tolerance: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to achieve the same excitement
• Irritability: Becoming anxious or irritable when unable to gamble
• Relationship strain: Gaming is causing conflict with loved ones

Self-Help Tools

Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control. These may include:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, monthly)
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose during a session or time period
• Reality Checks: Receive reminders during gaming sessions about how long you've been playing and how much you've wagered
• Time Limits: Set maximum session duration to prevent extended gambling periods
• Self-Exclusion: Take a break from gambling by temporarily or permanently closing your account
• Account Cooling-Off: Request a mandatory break before reactivating your account

Take advantage of these tools to keep your gaming experience safe and enjoyable.

Support Organizations

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

New Zealand

• Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF)
  Helpline: 0800 664 262 (free, confidential)
  Website: www.pgf.nz
  Provides support, counselling, and information for problem gambling in NZ
• Gambling Helpline
  Phone: 0800 664 262
  Available 24/7, free and anonymous support

International Support

• GamCare (UK)
  Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
  Supports problem gamblers in the UK and internationally
• GamStop (UK)
  Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
  Self-exclusion scheme for online gambling in the UK
• Gambling Help Online (Australia)
  Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
  Confidential support for Australian residents
• Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
  Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
  Advocacy and support for Canadian gamblers
• National Council on Problem Gambling (USA)
  Website: www.ncpgambling.org
  24/7 National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700

If You Need Help

Problem gambling is a serious issue, but recovery is possible with proper support. If you or someone close to you is struggling with gambling:

• Reach out to the Problem Gambling Foundation on 0800 664 262 (NZ)
• Contact your general practitioner for professional advice
• Speak to a trusted family member or friend
• Use self-exclusion tools immediately to restrict your access to gambling
• Seek counselling or therapy from a qualified professional

Help is available. You are not alone.