Pause first if you are not sure
If the issue is short term, a cooling off period is usually the better starting point. From a few days up to a full month, the account is fully blocked from logins and gameplay but your balance is preserved and any verified withdrawal can still be processed. This is the right tool when life is just busy or when you want to step back from a hot streak before making bigger decisions.
Activate a cooling off from the account settings under responsible gambling, or ask live chat. The pause begins immediately and the end date is shown clearly so there is no ambiguity.
Self exclusion as a stronger step
Self exclusion blocks the account for six months, twelve months, two years or permanently. It cannot be lifted before the end date. This is the right tool if gambling is no longer fun, if it is affecting other parts of your life or if a family member has raised a real concern.
Activate self exclusion the same way as a cooling off, then close any open browser tabs and remove the casino bookmark to reduce future temptation. Many Kiwi players also block casino sites at the home router level using a free DNS filter.
Permanent account closure
Permanent closure is a clean break. Your account is closed, your balance is paid out to your verified withdrawal method and your personal data is retained only for the period required by anti money laundering regulations. After that retention period, data is deleted.
Permanent closure is the right tool when you are confident the decision is final. If there is any doubt, choose self exclusion instead because it is reversible at the end of the chosen period.
What happens to your balance
Any cash balance is paid out to the most recent verified withdrawal method. Bonus balances and free spins that have not been wagered are forfeited because the bonus is tied to an active account. If a bonus has been partly wagered and you choose to close the account, the cash portion that has been earned is retained and the outstanding bonus portion is forfeited.
Loyalty points and tier status are usually retained for any cooling off, but reset on permanent closure. If you are part way through a tournament, talk to support before closing because in some cases the tournament prize can still be paid even if the account closes immediately afterwards.
Verification and timing
If your account is not yet fully verified, complete identity verification before closing. This makes any final withdrawal smooth and fast. Submit a clear photo of your driver licence or passport and a recent utility bill or bank statement. Verification is normally finished within 24 hours.
Closure itself is processed within one business day at most we. Live chat can confirm the exact status and any final steps.
Closing accounts across multiple casinos
If you have accounts at several casinos, close them all together rather than one at a time. The Gambling Helpline NZ can help with a coordinated approach including third party self exclusion in some cases. This is a meaningful step if gambling has been a longer term concern.
Removing payment methods that you used for casino deposits is another effective practical step. Speak to your bank about blocking gambling related transactions. Most major NZ banks now offer this as a self service toggle in their app.
Getting support during the process
If closing the account feels emotionally hard, that is normal and a sign that the decision is the right one. Free confidential support is available 24/7 from the Gambling Helpline NZ on 0800 654 655. Counsellors can talk through the practical steps and help connect you with longer term services.
The Problem Gambling Foundation also runs in person services in most major NZ centres and can be reached through the helpline. There is no judgement and no cost.
Reopening an account later
Cooling off ends automatically on the chosen end date and the account becomes active again. Self exclusion can only be lifted at the end of the chosen period and may require a short conversation with the responsible gambling team to confirm the decision.
Permanent closure is final. Reopening requires a brand new account, and that is only possible if your previous account was closed for personal reasons rather than as a sanction. Slot Bunny keeps these processes transparent and supports whatever choice serves you best.