In an exciting development for Lotto enthusiasts, a single ticket purchased in Auckland has won a staggering Powerball jackpot of $44 million. However, the fortunate winner has yet to come forward and claim their life-changing prize.
Record-Breaking Win
The jackpot amount of $44,066,667 equals the largest single-winner payout in New Zealand Lotto history. This impressive total includes a one-fifteenth share of the Division One prize and was announced following the draw on Saturday night. As of 3 PM on Sunday, a spokesperson for Lotto NZ confirmed that the winner had not yet claimed the jackpot, raising anticipation across the nation. “Hopefully in the next couple of days, we will have more information,” the spokesperson stated.
Winning Numbers and Other Payouts
Last night’s winning numbers were 24, 17, 25, 30, 6, and 3, with the bonus ball being 36 and the Powerball number 1. In addition to the grand prize winner, fourteen other ticket holders who missed out on the Powerball number will each receive $66,667. These tickets were bought at Relay Auckland Domestic Airport, Caltex Dinsdale in Hamilton, and via MyLotto from players based in Northland, Auckland, and Wellington.
Insights from Past Winners
This latest win mirrors a record $50 million Powerball jackpot in June when seven winners each took home $7.1 million. Interestingly, this recent $44.06 million win ties with a 2016 record set by an Auckland couple. They shared their experience, advising future winners to maintain a balanced routine, such as eating and sleeping well in the initial weeks following a substantial win. “It’s the little things like that which are easy to overlook in those early days,” they noted.
Another couple who shared a $50 million prize in 2020 emphasized the importance of sharing the news carefully. “Keep your circle small, but definitely share the news with someone. You will need the support of at least one other person as you process your win,” they shared.
Lotto’s Commitment to the Community
Since its inception in 1987, Lotto has transformed the lives of over 280 Powerball winners while generating essential funding for community organizations and charities across New Zealand. Lotto NZ’s chief executive, Jason Delamore, highlighted the significant impact of the lottery, stating, “More than $6 billion has been returned to communities since Lotto began.”
Claiming the Prize
For those curious about how to claim winnings, ticket holders can check their MyLotto accounts to see if they have won. Prizes amounting to $1,000 or less automatically credit to the winner’s account. For prizes exceeding $1,000, winners are required to complete an online prize form. Those with physical tickets must visit a Lotto retailer to claim their winnings. To claim the Powerball jackpot, the ticket holder must match all six Lotto numbers, in addition to the Powerball number.
As the nation buzzes with excitement over the latest colossal win, all eyes are on Auckland to see when the generous winner will announce themselves and embark on their next adventure with this life-altering sum.