SkyCity challenged to lay out all its cards

SkyCity is being challenged to lay out all its cards, with problem gambling once again in the spotlight.

The casino operator has announced improvements to its host responsibility, as it works on a convention centre deal with the Government.

But the Problem Gambling Foundation says steps aimed at identifying problem gamblers sooner don't go far enough.

CEO Graeme Ramsey says the casino already has a lot of data, thanks to loyalty cards.

"I think that it would be fair for everyone to see what that data tells us about the problem gamblers in the casino and how much of their revenue actually comes from problem gambling."

Mr Ramsey believes at least 40 percent of the money lost on pokie machines, comes from people with a gambling problem.

The casino is bringing in new pre-commitment technology, so gamblers can decide how much money or time they will spend, before they start playing.

Once they hit the limit, they're frozen out for a time.

Mr Ramsey says it's a great idea, but SkyCity's only doing it on a voluntary basis.

"What we do know is that a voluntary system doesn't work, a mandatory system would work."

Mr Ramsey suspects the casino is trying to make the convention centre deal more palatable.

Photo: NZ Herald