Responsible Gaming

Our Commitment to Responsible Gaming

At AKWest, we are committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Online casino gaming should be enjoyed as entertainment only, never as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. We encourage all players to gamble within their means and to seek help if they feel their gaming is becoming problematic.

Age Verification

You must be at least 18 years of age (or the legal gambling age in your jurisdiction in New Zealand) to use our website and participate in any gaming activities. We take age verification seriously and reserve the right to request proof of age at any time. If you are under the legal age, please do not proceed with registration or gameplay.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognise any of the following signs in your own behaviour, please seek help immediately:

• Chasing losses by gambling more money to recover what you've lost
• Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, food, bills)
• Hiding gambling activity or lying to family and friends about how much you gamble
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when trying to reduce gambling
• Gambling for longer periods or with larger amounts than intended
• Neglecting work, study, or personal relationships due to gambling
• Borrowing money or going into debt to finance gambling
• Feeling that gambling is the only way to solve your problems or cope with stress
• Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop gambling

Self-Help Tools

We provide several tools to help you maintain control of your gaming:

• Deposit Limits: Set daily, weekly, or monthly limits on the amount of money you can deposit into your account
• Loss Limits: Set limits on the amount you're willing to lose during a gaming session
• Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
• Session Time Limits: Set automatic time reminders to help you track your gaming duration
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently close your account if you feel you need a break from gambling

If you wish to use any of these tools, please contact our customer support team or visit your account settings.

Support Organisations in New Zealand and Beyond

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Please reach out to one of the following organisations:

New Zealand Support

• Problem Gambling Foundation (NZ): Free, confidential support service. Phone: 0800 664 262 or visit www.pgf.nz
• Gamblers Anonymous (NZ): Peer support meetings across New Zealand. Visit www.gamblersanonymous.org.nz

International Support (For Reference)

• Australia - Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• United Kingdom - GamCare: www.gamcare.org.uk
• United Kingdom - GamStop (Self-Exclusion Register): www.gamstop.co.uk
• Canada - Responsible Gambling Council: www.responsiblegambling.org
• United States - National Council on Problem Gambling: www.ncpgambling.org

Take Action Today

If you believe you may have a problem with gambling, please don't hesitate to reach out for support. Help is confidential, free, and available 24/7 through the Problem Gambling Foundation (NZ) at 0800 664 262. There is no shame in asking for help—taking action now could make a significant difference to your wellbeing and that of your loved ones.

Remember: Gambling should be fun. If it stops being fun, it's time to seek help.