A single Lotto ticket has turned one lucky New Plymouth resident into New Zealand’s newest multi-millionaire, scooping an incredible $23.3 million in a recent Powerball draw.
The ticket, sold at Woolworths Spotswood, was comprised of Powerball and a one-third share of Division One, making the grand total $23,333,333. This marks the fifth-largest Lotto prize won this year and adds another winner to the growing list of 20 Kiwi multi-millionaires in 2024.
Winner Unaware Until Ticket Checked
The fortunate ticket holder was unaware of their life-changing win when they went to check the numbers. Woolworths Spotswood’s manager shared with reporters how the winner discovered the news.
“From what I heard, they didn’t even know. They were just going on with their day, had no idea the ticket was sold here. They came in to check it, and then… boom,” the manager explained.
Though the win wasn’t his, he said he was thrilled for the community. “It’s a shame it’s not me, but it’s great that someone local got it.”
More Winners Around the Country
Two additional Division One winners, without the Powerball number, each claimed $333,333. Those tickets were sold at Woolworths Eastgate in Christchurch and Pak’nSave Pāpāmoa in the Bay of Plenty.
Strike Four, however, was not struck and will roll over to the following night’s draw, where it is expected to reach $1.1 million.
The Year of Big Wins
This latest win follows a series of massive Lotto jackpots in New Zealand this year.
- July: A family from Auckland’s North Shore claimed $30.2 million from Powerball.
- April: An Aucklander equalled the largest single-player Lotto win ever, taking home $44 million.
- June: A record $50 million jackpot was split between seven lucky players, who each collected $7.1 million.
In each case, winners have taken their time to come forward, with some claiming their prizes weeks after the draw.
What Happens Next for Lotto Winners
A Lotto NZ spokesperson explained the process for claiming such a significant prize. “If a winner claims in person, they must fill out a claims form at the retailer. The retailer then contacts Lotto NZ’s head office, and our winners’ team finalises the process with the ticket holder.”
With more draws on the horizon, all eyes are on what surprises Lotto Powerball could bring next. For now, one New Plymouth resident can celebrate becoming $23.3 million richer overnight.