Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
At Shear 4 a Cause, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming. Gambling should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, similar to going to the movies or enjoying a night out. It should never be considered a way to earn money or solve financial problems.
Please gamble responsibly and within your means. Only wager money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
In New Zealand, you must be 18 years of age or older to gamble legally. We do not permit access to our services by anyone under the legal gambling age. If you are underage, please do not attempt to access gambling services.
All online casinos featured on shear4acause.co.nz are required to verify customer age and identity before accepting wagers.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, problem gambling may be developing:
- Chasing losses — trying to win back money you've lost by gambling more
- Hiding gambling activity — keeping your gambling secret from friends and family
- Increasing stakes — needing to gamble with larger amounts to get the same excitement
- Neglecting responsibilities — missing work, school, or family commitments due to gambling
- Financial problems — borrowing money, using credit cards, or going into debt to gamble
- Loss of control — being unable to stop or reduce your gambling
- Mood swings — becoming irritable or anxious when not gambling
- Preoccupation with gambling — constantly thinking about past sessions or planning the next one
- Risky behaviour — gambling with money meant for essential expenses like rent or bills
If you experience any of these signs, seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control over your gambling:
- Deposit Limits — Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, monthly)
- Loss Limits — Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose in a given period
- Betting Limits — Restrict the size of individual wagers
- Reality Checks — Receive notifications at intervals to remind you how long you've been gambling
- Session Time Limits — Set automatic logout after a predetermined period
- Self-Exclusion — Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from casino accounts
We encourage all players to use these tools. Speak with your chosen casino's customer support to activate any of these features.
Support Organisations & Resources for New Zealand
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. The following organisations provide free, confidential support:
New Zealand Resources
- Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF) — Free helpline and counselling services across Aotearoa
Phone: 0800 664 262 (free call)
Website: www.pgf.nz
Email support available via their website - Gambling Helpline (1800 GAMBLER equivalent) — Free, confidential support
Phone: 0800 664 262
Open 24 hours, 7 days a week
International Resources
If you're accessing services internationally or seeking additional support:
- GamCare (United Kingdom) — www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (United Kingdom) — www.gamstop.co.uk — UK national self-exclusion register
- Gambling Help Online (Australia) — www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) — www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (United States) — www.ncpgambling.org
Counselling is free and confidential. These organisations do not report your information to casinos or authorities and can provide practical support tailored to your situation.
Take Action Today
If you believe you have a problem with gambling, please seek help immediately. There is no shame in reaching out — problem gambling is a recognised issue that affects many people, and support is available.
Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation on 0800 664 262 or visit www.pgf.nz today. You can also speak confidentially with a trained counsellor.
Remember: Gambling should be fun. If it's not, it's time to get help.