Tonight’s Lotto Powerball draw is worth an eye-watering $36 million and for one lucky New Zealander, it could prove to be a life-changer.
But what does it really feel like to win big?
Lotto NZ’s Winners Booklet provides a peek into the emotions that follow a major win.
“I stood there crying with a bloody great smile on my face,” one winner said.
Another admitted: “I didn’t let the ticket leave my sight. I slept with it!”
Some winners kept their tickets in glove boxes, drawers, or even tucked inside a Bible.
“It’s not every day you have thousands of dollars sitting in your glove box,” one said.
Lotto NZ advised winners it was normal to feel a mix of excitement, disbelief and nerves after hitting the jackpot.
“This is a very special time for you. After all, it’s not every day you win a major lottery prize. Above all, we want you to enjoy your winnings. This is not a dream. This is a dream come true!”
Powerball climbed to $36 million after it was not struck in Saturday’s $33m draw.
Two players from Auckland and Westport took home $500,000 each after winning First Division.
Meanwhile, two Strike Four players from Waimate and Nelson will also be celebrating after each taking home $100,000.
Due to coverage of the Black Caps v West Indies T20 International on TVNZ 1, Wednesday’s live Lotto draw will air at 8.20pm on TVNZ 2 and TVNZ+.
