Responsible Gambling in New Zealand

The Gambling Act 2003, an evolution of earlier legislation dating back to 1908, was enacted to safeguard individuals and society from the potential harms caused by excessive gambling. While gambling has been a part of New Zealand’s culture for centuries, robust regulation ensures that it remains a responsible and controlled activity.

From the earliest Māori settlers in Aotearoa, games of chance and skill weren’t just forms of entertainment – they carried deep cultural and social importance. However, with European colonisation came new forms of gambling, which quickly embedded themselves in the fabric of New Zealand society. By the early 1800s, horse racing had emerged as a national passion, drawing widespread enthusiasm and participation.

Despite gambling’s long history in New Zealand, it’s important to remain aware of the inherent risks. Whether you’re a casual player or a seasoned bettor, it’s vital to be mindful of the consequences of unchecked gambling habits.

Ultimately, the key lies in personal responsibility. Understanding the principles of safe gambling can help ensure that it remains a fun and controlled activity, rather than turning into a destructive force.

Understanding Gambling Addiction

Gambling addiction, or “ludomania,” is a serious mental health disorder characterised by an overwhelming, uncontrollable desire to gamble, even in the face of severe negative consequences.

Key Risks Associated with Gambling Addiction

For individuals suffering from gambling addiction, the impact can be far-reaching and life-changing. Some of the most common consequences include:

• Relationship Strain – Gamblers often struggle to maintain healthy relationships with family, friends, and colleagues due to deceit, broken promises, and neglect.
• Financial Ruin – Gambling addiction can lead to bankruptcy, legal problems, or criminal charges. In a desperate bid to fund their habits, individuals may resort to borrowing, selling possessions, or even committing crimes such as theft.
• Neglecting Responsibilities – Gamblers may disregard personal, work, and academic obligations, leading to job loss, poor academic results, and social isolation.
• Physical and Mental Health Deterioration – Obsession with gambling often results in neglecting self-care, which in turn affects both physical and mental health.
• Depression and Suicidal Thoughts – Feelings of hopelessness and despair are common among gamblers, and in severe cases, this can escalate to suicidal ideation.

Primary Causes of Gambling Addiction

While gambling addiction can stem from various factors, some of the most common causes include:

• Mental Health Conditions – People with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, or other mental health disorders are at an elevated risk. Substance abuse can also contribute to the development of gambling addiction.
• Gender Differences – Men are more likely to engage in gambling than women, making them more susceptible to addiction. However, women who do develop gambling problems tend to start later in life.
• Certain Personality Traits – Impulsive, highly competitive, bored, or workaholic individuals are more prone to developing a gambling addiction.
• Age – While gambling addiction can occur at any age, young people, particularly those who begin gambling at an early age, are especially vulnerable.
• Environmental Factors – Many gamblers have close relatives or friends who also struggle with gambling addiction, which may increase the likelihood of developing the same problem.

Signs You Might Be Struggling with Gambling Addiction

If any of the following resonate with you, it could be a sign that you’re grappling with a gambling addiction:

• Constantly thinking about gambling, developing strategies, and seeking ways to acquire money for betting.
• Having unsuccessfully tried to stop or control your gambling.
• Feeling compelled to “chase” losses after a setback.
• Concealing your gambling habits from others.
• Prioritising gambling over family, work, or education.
• Raising your stakes to recapture the thrill you once experienced.
• Becoming irritable or anxious when attempting to cut back on gambling.
• Borrowing money to continue gambling.

If these behaviours sound familiar, it’s important to seek professional help as soon as possible.

Preventing Gambling Addiction Through Responsible Gaming

Certain patterns of behaviour are common among problem gamblers. By avoiding these patterns, the risk of developing a gambling addiction can be greatly reduced. One common issue is the urge to “chase” losses, convincing oneself that a win is just around the corner with enough effort.

Here are some steps you can take to help prevent such behaviour:

Set Limits

Establish a budget for how much you can afford to spend on gambling each week or month, and stick to it. Set loss limits – once you’ve reached your limit for the week or month, stop. If you wish to continue gambling, wait until the next period begins, but never chase your losses in the current one.

Take Breaks

Regular breaks are essential to maintaining control over your gambling habits. Use tools provided by regulatory bodies that allow you to take a break from gambling, whether for 24 hours or longer (up to several months).

Stop When Necessary

Addiction begins when you lose control over your gambling sessions. If you feel you’re slipping, stop gambling immediately. If you can’t manage on your own, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help.

The Responsibility of Gambling Companies

Gambling companies in New Zealand are required by law to implement stringent measures that reduce the risks of gambling for both individuals and the wider community.

Some of the key actions taken by these companies include:

Age Verification

Ensuring that all customers are of legal age to gamble.

Staff Training

All staff members receive training on responsible gambling practices, enabling them to recognise and assist players who might be at risk.

Resources for Problem Gamblers

Gambling companies provide information and resources to promote responsible gambling and assist those who require support.

Self-Exclusion Programs

All gambling providers must offer players the option to self-exclude from gambling activities, either temporarily or permanently, at their discretion.

Protecting Children from Gambling

New Zealand has implemented strict regulations to prevent minors from engaging in gambling activities.

Some of the key protective measures include:

Age Verification

Ensuring that each customer’s age is verified to confirm they are legally allowed to gamble.

Collaboration with Regulators

Gambling companies work alongside regulatory bodies to implement policies aimed at protecting children from gambling.

Parental Controls

Built-in parental control features allow guardians to restrict access to gambling content for minors.

New Zealand Organisations Offering Support for Gambling Addiction

Several organisations in New Zealand provide valuable assistance to individuals struggling with gambling addiction. If you or someone you know is in need of support, the following resources are available:

Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand – A research and treatment centre for various mental health conditions, including gambling addiction.

National Addictions Centre – A research and treatment facility dedicated to helping those affected by gambling addiction.

Gamblers Anonymous – A support group for those seeking recovery from gambling addiction.

Problem Gambling Foundation of New Zealand – A non-profit organisation offering resources, support, and information for individuals and families affected by gambling addiction.

Ministry of Health – Provides support and access to essential services for people dealing with gambling-related issues.