Kiwis have raised almost $12 million in support of communities impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle, Lotto NZ has announced.
A total of $11.7 million was raised from Saturday night's draw. The $15 million jackpot special was the tenth Powerball Must be Won draw in Lotto NZ's history.
Half of all ticket sales - or 50 cents in every dollar spent by players on Lotto, Powerball, or Strike tickets for the special draw - are going to support those impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle.
"We can't thank Lotto players throughout Aotearoa enough for throwing their weight behind this important cause and helping to raise such an incredible amount of money," said Lotto NZ Chief Executive Chris Lyman.
"Kiwis are renowned for being a generous bunch, but support for this special draw has exceeded all expectations and will go a long way in helping those communities doing it so tough right now."
A Christchurch Lotto player took out the special draw and woke up on Sunday morning with over 15 million reasons to be happy after winning $15.5 million.
The prize is made up of $15 million from Powerball First Division and $500,000 from Lotto First Division, with the winning ticket sold on MyLotto.
"It has been a privilege for Lotto NZ to host this special draw, and our thoughts remain with those affected by the Cyclone," Lyman said.
Other Saturday night Lotto winners
It wasn't just the Christchurch winner waking up happy on Sunday with another Lotto player claiming $500,000 with First Division.
The winning ticket was sold on MyLotto to a player from Auckland.
Meanwhile, 20 lucky Lotto players will be enjoying a boost to their bank accounts after each winning $24,497 with Second Division.
The winning Second Division tickets were sold at the following stores in Auckland, Pukekohe, Waihi, Tauranga, Rotorua, Hawke's Bay, Dannevirke, Horowhenua, Masterton, Nelson, Christchurch and Milton.
Strike Four rolled over on Saturday and will be $500,000 on Wednesday night.
"Anyone who bought their ticket on MyLotto should check their ticket as soon as possible in-store, on MyLotto, or through the MyLotto App," Lotto said
"Players can phone Lotto NZ on 0800 695 6886 if they want to enquire about the best way to claim a prize."
