Lotto Winners Share $15 Million Jackpot – and One is Still Missing!
A wave of excitement has swept across New Zealand after Saturday’s Powerball draw saw three tickets share a massive $15 million jackpot. Winners have emerged in Masterton and Wellington, each claiming $5.08 million, but one lucky ticket holder remains unknown.
From Underwear Runs to Beachside Rituals: The Winners’ Stories
The Masterton winner’s reaction was, to say the least, memorable. Discovering his win at 6:30 am on Sunday, he reportedly ran through his house in his underwear, excitedly waking his father. “He was asleep and wondered what on earth was going on,” the winner recounted, still visibly shaken by the experience. He plans to “sit on it for a while” before making any major decisions, acknowledging the life-changing nature of the prize.
The Wellington region winner, a grandfather, had a more composed, yet equally joyful, experience. His winning ticket was purchased as part of a cherished weekend ritual: a walk on the beach followed by a Lotto purchase at Coastlands Lotto in Paraparaumu. He initially doubted his win, checking the numbers “back and forth a good few times” before realizing the incredible news. He intends to use the winnings to help his children and grandchildren.
The Hunt for the Third Winner
Lotto New Zealand is now appealing to anyone who purchased a ticket from New World Greymouth to check their numbers. “If you picked up a ticket at New World Greymouth for Saturday’s draw, you could be our ‘lucky last’ winner,” said Lotto head of corporate communications, Will Hine.
Don’t Forget Those Old Tickets!
Hine also reminded players to check any old tickets, pointing out that a $500,000 ticket purchased in Westport in November remains unclaimed. “This is a great reminder to dig out any old tickets and check them. You never know what you might discover,” he added.
The Psychology of Winning: Why the Reactions Differ
The contrasting reactions of the two winners highlight the diverse ways people process such life-altering events. The Masterton man’s immediate, exuberant response suggests a more impulsive personality, while the Wellington grandfather’s initial disbelief and cautious approach indicate a more measured temperament. Psychologists note that shock, disbelief, and a temporary inability to process information are common reactions to sudden wealth.
Powerball: A Growing Trend in Large Jackpots
The $15 million Powerball jackpot is part of a broader trend of increasingly large lottery prizes. Powerball costs $2 per play, and in some states, like Idaho and Montana, it’s bundled with Power Play for $3. Players select five numbers from 1 to 69 and one number from 1 to 26.
FAQ: New Zealand Lotto & Powerball
- How much does a Powerball ticket cost? $2 per play.
- Where can I buy a Lotto ticket? At Lotto outlets throughout New Zealand.
- What should I do if I feel I’ve won? Sign the back of your ticket and contact Lotto New Zealand.
- What happens if multiple people win the jackpot? The jackpot is split equally among the winners.
Pro Tip: Always sign the back of your ticket immediately after purchase to ensure it’s yours if you win!
Want to learn more about responsible gambling? Visit Problem Gambling.
Have you ever dreamed of winning the lottery? Share your plans in the comments below!
