Lotto NZ returns $204 million to the community

17 October 2016

Lotto NZ returns $204 million to the community

Lotto NZ is pleased to report solid financial returns for the 2015/16 financial year and a transfer of $204 million back into community initiatives throughout New Zealand.

“I’m pleased to report sales for the year of $974.2 million, which is 9% up on the previous year,” said Lotto NZ’s Chief Executive Wayne Pickup.

“Combined with increased business efficiencies, which saw operating expenses decrease by 2%, we were able to return $204 million to the community.”

Lotto NZ exists to provide safe gaming that allows New Zealanders to play and win while contributing money back to New Zealand communities.

“Thanks to Lotto players, thousands of community projects across New Zealand are made possible every year,” said Mr Pickup.

The 2016 financial year signalled some major changes for Lotto NZ, with its biggest-ever game change bringing Lotto, Powerball and Strike to Wednesday as well as Saturday.

The game change has proved popular with Lotto players, resulting in increased sales and increased returns to the community.

“More people are playing our games more often,” said Mr Pickup, “and our mobile and web services continue to go from strength to strength.”

More people are choosing to buy their Lotto tickets online, with MyLotto sales increasing almost 30% on the previous year, and over one million tickets are scanned each month using Lotto NZ’s smartphone ticket-checker App.

Later this year, Lotto NZ will be releasing an updated version of the App with new features for players.

Lotto NZ’s world class operating environment was internationally recognised during the year for both its responsible gaming programme and its approach to security and risk management.

“Responsible gaming, ensuring the integrity of our games, and protecting the personal information of Lotto players are cornerstones of our business,” said Mr Pickup.

The World Lottery Association sets the international benchmark for responsible gaming and awarded Lotto NZ with the highest possible accreditation, recognising Lotto NZ’s commitment to minimising the potential risk of harm in relation to its products.

Lotto NZ also obtained two international security standards from the World Lottery Association and the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO).

A copy of Lotto NZ’s 2016 Annual Report can be found on MyLotto.co.nz

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