Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
At Sharvin Lodge, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Online pokies should be enjoyed as entertainment only – never as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Please gamble within your means and only with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
In New Zealand, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gambling. We take age verification seriously and reserve the right to request proof of identity. If you are under 18, please do not use our services or access online pokies.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following warning signs, please seek help immediately:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding gambling activities or lying about the amount of time/money spent
- Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, food, bills)
- Neglecting family, work, or social commitments due to gambling
- Experiencing mood swings or anxiety related to gambling
- Feeling unable to control or stop gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts
- Gambling to escape problems or relieve stress
Self-Help Tools & Safer Gaming Features
Most reputable online gaming platforms offer tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to spend daily, weekly, or monthly
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose in a given period
- Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders of how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Session Timeout: Automatically log out after a set period of inactivity
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling accounts
We encourage you to use these tools to maintain control over your gambling habits.
Support Organizations – Get Help Now
If you're struggling with problem gambling, support is available. Here are trusted organisations you can contact:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (Te Kāhui Aro Mahaki): Free, confidential support and counselling
Phone: 0800 654 600
Website: www.problemgambling.nz - Gambling Helpline: Free phone counselling service
Phone: 0800 654 600
International Support
- GamCare (United Kingdom): www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (United Kingdom): www.gamstop.co.uk
- 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
If You Have a Problem, Seek Help Today
Problem gambling can have serious consequences for your mental health, finances, and relationships. You are not alone, and help is available.
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, please contact one of the support organisations listed above. These services are confidential, free, and staffed by trained professionals.
Remember: Taking action early is the best step towards recovery.