NZ Lotteries encourages NZers to Play Responsibly

Media Release
3 October 2008

NZ Lotteries encourages New Zealanders to Play Responsibly

With Lotto outlets reporting queues already this week due to the biggest-ever Powerball $20 million jackpot, NZ Lotteries is today urging players to play responsibly.

NZ Lotteries Chief Executive Todd McLeay says that around half a million more tickets are sold in a big jackpot week, with the busiest sales day yet to come on Saturday.

"We encourage people to only spend what they can afford - and to be realistic about the odds of winning. Players do not need to spend a lot if they want to have the dream of winning big.

"The minimum you can spend for a chance at winning Powerball is $4.40 - this will purchase four lines of Lotto and Powerball on a self select coupon.

"The other low cost option is to form a syndicate amongst office colleagues or friends - in order to pool your funds to purchase tickets.

"There is a real Powerball 'buzz' around country, with many workplaces discussing just what they would do if they won that $20 million jackpot," says Mr McLeay.

"Happily, our past research on Lotto winners has revealed that New Zealanders are generous with their winnings. A survey of past big winners we undertook in mid-2007 revealed that 57% of winners gave money to charity whilst 92% gave money to their family," Mr McLeay said.

Powerball Facts:
• The odds of winning Powerball are 1 in 38,383,800
• The odds of winning Lotto are 1 in 3,838,380
• Powerball must be won after it reaches $30 million.

ENDS

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