Outstanding Lotto Prize Claimed In Nick Of Time

Media Release 19 April 2010

Auckland Winner Claims $509,937 Outstanding Prize In The Nick Of Time

Unbelievably, the holder of an unclaimed $509,937 Lotto ticket claimed on Saturday, just one day before it expired, says NZ Lotteries’ Chief Executive, Todd McLeay.

The First Division winning ticket was sold 12 months ago at Richmond Road Superette in Ponsonby, Auckland, for last year’s Lotto draw on 18 April 2009. The ticket holder had until close of business, Sunday 18 April 2010, to claim the prize.

“As far as we’re aware this is the first time a major prize has been claimed the day before its expiry date – if the winner had waited until Monday he would have unfortunately received nothing!” says Mr McLeay.

The winner, a Ponsonby local who does not wish to be identified, told NZ Lotteries he put the ticket in a drawer at home and completely forgot about it.

“It’s been a stressful year and I completely forgot I had the ticket, until Saturday when I opened the drawer.”

“It was a bit faded but I noticed the date on it and thought I’d better get down to the shop quick just in case I’d won anything,” the winner said.

The winner was completely unaware of the recent media coverage surrounding the large unclaimed prize.

The largest prize that expired unclaimed in recent times was a $3 million Lotto prize that was sold in Masterton in early 2003.

Up to three percent of all NZ Lotteries’ prizes are unclaimed in an average year. The unclaimed prizes are transferred to the prize reserve fund where they are used to fund jackpots and promotional prizes.

“This is a great reminder for all Lotto players to check their drawers, couches, cupboards, cars, books and coats for any unchecked tickets,” says Mr McLeay.

ENDS

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