Responsible Gambling Policy

This Responsible Gambling Policy applies to all gambling activities offered at Corvelianhotelretrea, located in Taupō, New Zealand. This policy is operated by , registered at . We are deeply committed to ensuring that every guest who chooses to participate in gambling on our premises does so in a safe, informed, and enjoyable manner.

We believe that gambling should always be a form of entertainment — never a source of distress or hardship. If at any point gambling stops being fun, we are here to help you take back control.

Our Commitment

At Corvelianhotelretrea, we take our responsibility to our guests and the wider community very seriously. We are firmly committed to promoting responsible gambling practices and to providing a safe environment for all visitors. Our commitment includes:

  • Training all relevant staff to recognise the signs of problem gambling and to respond with care and compassion.
  • Providing clear, accessible information about responsible gambling tools and support services throughout our premises.
  • Strictly enforcing our minimum age policy for all gambling activities.
  • Offering practical self-exclusion tools and other support mechanisms to anyone who feels they may need them.
  • Working in partnership with recognised problem gambling support organisations in New Zealand and internationally.
  • Continuously reviewing and improving our responsible gambling practices in line with current best standards.

We genuinely care about your wellbeing. No matter what you are going through, you are never alone — our team is always here to listen and to point you toward the right help.

18+ Age Policy — No Minors Permitted

Gambling at Corvelianhotelretrea is strictly restricted to individuals who are 18 years of age or older. This is both a legal requirement and a core ethical principle that we uphold without exception.

To protect young people, we take the following steps:

  • All guests who appear to be under the age of 18 will be asked to provide valid, government-issued photo identification before being permitted access to any gambling facilities.
  • Accepted forms of identification include a New Zealand driver's licence, New Zealand passport, or other government-issued photo ID.
  • Any individual who cannot provide satisfactory proof of age will be refused entry to gambling areas — no exceptions.
  • Our staff are trained to apply this policy consistently, respectfully, and without bias.

If you are concerned about a young person accessing gambling facilities, please speak to a member of our team immediately. We take all such concerns seriously and will act promptly.

Recognising the Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, or experience. It can develop gradually and may be difficult to recognise in yourself or in someone you care about. We encourage all guests to be aware of the following signs:

Signs You May Be Experiencing a Problem

  • Spending more money or time gambling than you originally intended.
  • Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when you are not gambling.
  • Chasing losses — continuing to gamble in an attempt to win back money you have lost.
  • Gambling to escape from stress, worry, sadness, or other difficult emotions.
  • Neglecting work, family, relationships, or other responsibilities because of gambling.
  • Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling.
  • Feeling guilt, shame, or secrecy around your gambling behaviour.
  • Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop gambling.
  • Continuing to gamble even when it is causing financial or personal harm.

Signs a Loved One May Have a Problem

  • Unexplained financial difficulties, missing money, or unpaid bills.
  • Withdrawal from family, friends, and social activities.
  • Frequent preoccupation with gambling, odds, or past wins and losses.
  • Mood swings, irritability, or changes in behaviour linked to gambling outcomes.
  • Dishonesty or secrecy about whereabouts or finances.

If any of these signs feel familiar — whether for yourself or someone you know — please reach out for support. There is absolutely no shame in asking for help, and early intervention can make a real difference.

Self-Exclusion and Responsible Gambling Tools

We offer a range of practical tools designed to help you stay in control of your gambling. These tools are available to all guests, and our staff will assist you in accessing them with full discretion and respect.

Self-Exclusion

Self-exclusion allows you to voluntarily ban yourself from all gambling facilities at Corvelianhotelretrea for a specified period of time. This is a powerful tool for anyone who feels they need a break from gambling. To apply for self-exclusion:

  • Speak privately with any member of our management or guest services team.
  • You may choose a self-exclusion period that suits your needs.
  • Once enrolled, our staff will make every reasonable effort to ensure you are not permitted access to gambling areas during your exclusion period.
  • You may also register for a national self-exclusion programme through the New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs.

Deposit and Spending Limits

We encourage all guests to set a personal budget before they begin gambling. Deciding in advance how much you are comfortable spending — and sticking to that limit — is one of the most effective ways to keep gambling enjoyable and under control.

Time-Out Periods

If you feel you need a short break from gambling without committing to a full self-exclusion, you can request a temporary time-out. Speak to a member of our team and we will arrange this for you promptly and confidentially.

Reality Checks

Our staff are available at any time to provide you with an honest account of how long you have been gambling or how much you have spent. We encourage you to use this service whenever you feel it would be helpful.

Cooling-Off Period

You may request a cooling-off period at any time. During this time, you will not be permitted to access gambling facilities, giving you space to reflect and seek support if needed.

Support and Helpline Numbers

You do not have to face problem gambling alone. There are compassionate, professional support services available around the clock — for you, and for those who care about you. All services listed below are free and confidential.

New Zealand Support Services

  • Problem Gambling Foundation of New Zealand
    Free helpline: 0800 664 262
    Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
    Website: www.pgf.nz
  • Gambling Helpline New Zealand
    Free helpline: 0800 654 655
    Text support: 8006
    Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
    Website: www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
  • Lifeline New Zealand
    Free helpline: 0800 543 354
    Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
    Website: www.lifeline.org.nz

International Support Services

  • GamCare (United Kingdom)
    Free helpline: +44 808 8020 133
    Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
    Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
  • BeGambleAware (United Kingdom)
    Free helpline: +44 808 8020 133
    Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
    Website: www.begambleaware.org
  • National Council on Problem Gambling — NCPG (United States)
    Free helpline: +1 800 522 4700
    Crisis text line: Text HOME to 741741
    Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
    Website: www.ncpgambling.org
  • Gamblers Anonymous (International)
    Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org
    Find a meeting or contact support in your country through the international directory on their website.

If you are in immediate distress, please reach out to a member of our team or call a helpline right away. Help is available, and things can get better. You deserve support.

Contact Us

If you have any questions about this Responsible Gambling Policy, wish to access any of the tools described above, or simply need someone to talk to, please do not hesitate to contact our team directly.


Our guest services team is available on-site and will always treat your enquiry with the utmost sensitivity and confidentiality. Responsible gambling is not just a policy for us — it is a genuine promise to every person who walks through our doors.

This policy is reviewed regularly to ensure it remains current, effective, and reflective of our ongoing commitment to the wellbeing of our guests and our community.