Responsible Gaming
Our Commitment to Safe Gaming
At esphion.co.nz, we are committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Online pokies should be enjoyed as entertainment only, never as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. If you choose to play, please do so within your means and set limits you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
Online gambling in New Zealand is only available to individuals aged 18 years and over. We take age verification seriously and reserve the right to request proof of age. If you are under 18, you must not access or use gambling services.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Please be aware of these warning signs:
- Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Neglecting family, work, or other important responsibilities
- Hiding gambling activities or lying about the amount spent
- Feeling anxious or irritable when unable to gamble
- Borrowing money to fund gambling
- Using gambling as an escape from stress, anxiety, or depression
- Failed attempts to reduce or stop gambling
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone else, please seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Features
Most reputable online gaming platforms offer tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit over a specified period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose
- Reality Checks: Receive reminders during gaming sessions about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling for a set period
- Time-Out Options: Take a break from gambling without permanently closing your account
We encourage you to use these tools proactively to manage your gaming.
Support Organizations in New Zealand
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available:
New Zealand Services
-
Problem Gambling Foundation
Free, confidential support and counselling
Phone: 0800 654 655 (24/7)
Website: www.problemgambling.nz -
Gambling Helpline
Phone: 0800 654 655
Fax: 09 308 0157 -
Ministry of Health - Gambling Services
Information and resources about problem gambling
Website: www.health.govt.nz
International Resources
-
GamCare (UK)
www.gamcare.org.uk -
GamStop (UK Self-Exclusion Scheme)
www.gamstop.co.uk -
Gambling Help Online (Australia)
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Take Action Today
If you are experiencing problem gambling, please reach out for help now. Seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. The organisations listed above provide confidential, non-judgmental assistance and are available to help you regain control.
Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation on 0800 654 655 (24/7) if you need immediate support.
Remember: Gambling should be fun and entertaining. If it stops being fun, it's time to stop.