Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Fun, Not a Financial Solution
At Academy Lodge Motel, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Online pokies and casino games should be enjoyed as entertainment only – never as a way to make money or solve financial problems. The house always has an edge, and the outcome of every game is determined by chance.
Please gamble within your means and only with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gaming in New Zealand. This is a legal requirement and a crucial safeguard. If you're under 18, please do not access any gaming platforms through this site.
LeoVegas and all licensed operators are required to verify your age before allowing you to play. Be honest during registration – it's for your protection.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you experience any of the following, you may be developing a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
- Gambling with money intended for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
- Hiding your gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
- Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
- Feeling anxious or irritable when you're not gambling
- Lying about the amount of time or money you spend gaming
- Neglecting work, school, or personal relationships due to gambling
- Borrowing money to finance gambling activities
- Feeling a need to gamble with increasing amounts to achieve the same excitement
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
If you recognise yourself in these signs, help is available and seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
LeoVegas and licensed operators provide tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Restrict the maximum amount you're willing to lose in a given timeframe
- Session Time Limits: Set reminders or automatic disconnection after a certain period of play
- Reality Checks: Pop-up notifications during play to remind you how long you've been gaming and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming sites if you feel you're losing control
- Account Pause: Take a break from gaming without closing your account entirely
Use these tools proactively. They're designed with your wellbeing in mind.
Support Organisations in New Zealand & Beyond
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, these organisations offer confidential support:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF)
Helpline: 0800 664 262 (free and confidential)
Website: www.pgf.nz
They provide counselling, support, and resources for problem gambling in NZ. - Gambling Helpline NZ
Helpline: 0800 006 886
Available 24/7 for support and advice.
International Support (if you're accessing from abroad)
- GamCare (United Kingdom)
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
Free, confidential support and counselling for problem gamblers. - GamStop (United Kingdom)
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling. - Gambling Help Online (Australia)
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Free counselling and information for Australian residents. - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
Resources and support for Canadian gamblers. - National Council on Problem Gambling (United States)
Helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
Confidential support and referrals.
All calls and contacts are confidential and free of charge.
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
Problem gambling is a real issue, and recovery is possible. You don't have to face it alone. Whether you're experiencing difficulties yourself or concerned about someone else:
- Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation on 0800 664 262 (NZ) – available 24/7
- Visit www.pgf.nz for free counselling and support
- Use the self-exclusion tools available through your gaming account immediately
- Talk to someone you trust – family, friends, or a healthcare professional
Seeking help is a sign of strength. Take control today.
This responsible gaming information is current as of 2026. Academy Lodge Motel promotes safe and responsible gaming and complies with all New Zealand gaming regulations. If you have concerns about your gambling or that of someone close to you, please reach out to the support organisations listed above.