Introduction to Lotto NZ
Lotto New Zealand, officially the New Zealand Lotteries Commission, is a Crown entity formed in 1987 under the Gambling Act 2003. Since 2013, it has operated as Lotto New Zealand, running lottery games nationwide.
Its main game is Lotto, where players pick six numbers from 1 to 40. Matching all six wins the jackpot, often reaching NZ$1 million. Popular add-ons include Powerball and Strike, which offer bigger jackpots and extra prizes. Powerball jackpots can climb to $50 million before a mandatory “Must Be Won” draw.
For those interested in other gaming options, card games like 500, poker, Blackjack, and Texas Hold’em are popular in social and family settings across New Zealand. How to play card games in New Zealand is an essential thing to know to enjoy these widely embraced recreational activities.
How to Play with Own Numbers
To play Lotto NZ with your own numbers, select six numbers between 1 and 40 for each line. You must play at least four lines per ticket. You can add Powerball or Strike as optional extras. Tickets can be bought from retailers or online, but all numbers have an equal chance of being drawn, so picking your own numbers does not improve your odds. The bonus prize Lotto NZ is determined independently of your number selection, relying solely on the draw.
Types of Games
Lotto NZ offers a range of games to suit different preferences:
- Lotto: Draws twice weekly, on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Match six numbers to win the top prize. Powerball and Strike are optional add-ons.
- Powerball: An add-on where players pick one number from 1 to 10. The jackpot starts at $4 million and can reach $50 million.
- Strike: Another add-on where players try to match the first four Lotto numbers in exact order. The top prize starts at $100,000.
- Keno: Draws every four minutes. Players select 1 to 10 numbers from 1 to 80. Matching all 10 can win up to $250,000 or $1 million with a multiplier.
- Bullseye: A daily six-digit number game. The closer your number is to the drawn one, the bigger the prize.
- Instant Kiwi: Scratchcards and online games with prizes up to $250,000.
- Play 3: A simple three-digit game with prizes up to $500.
Profits from these games support community projects in the arts, sports, and more.
Bonus Prize Structure
After the six main Lotto numbers are drawn, a seventh ball – the bonus ball – is drawn from the remaining 34 balls. This bonus ball determines winners in prize divisions where fewer than six main numbers are matched but include the bonus ball. The bonus prize Lotto NZ adds an extra layer of excitement and opportunity for players.
For example, the second division requires matching five main numbers plus the bonus ball, with odds around 1 in 639,730 and an average prize of $20,000. Other divisions include matching four or three main numbers plus the bonus ball, offering smaller prizes. The bonus prize Lotto NZ is integral to these secondary prize categories, making it a key feature in the overall prize structure.
Eligibility and Requirements
Players must be at least 18 to buy and play Lotto NZ games. Retailers may ask for ID, and it is illegal to buy tickets for anyone under 18. Online players must be physically located in New Zealand when purchasing tickets, as overseas credit cards are no longer accepted.
Tickets must be marked by hand on official coupons or via authorised digital platforms. Machine-marked coupons are invalid. For Lotto, at least four lines of six numbers must be selected, and Powerball or Strike can only be played as add-ons.
All games comply with the Gambling Act 2003 and Lotto Rules 2000. Age verification is also required when claiming prizes.
Claiming Prizes In Store
Prizes up to $1,000 can be claimed immediately at any Lotto NZ retailer. For prizes above $1,000, players must submit their ticket and a Prize Claim Form via the retailer. The claim is then processed at Lotto NZ’s head office in Auckland.
When claiming larger prizes, you must provide your winning ticket, completed form, and bank details. Always keep a copy of your ticket before handing it in. Prizes must be claimed within 12 months of the draw date; unclaimed prizes return to the prize pool.
Tax Implications
Lottery winnings from Lotto NZ are not subject to income tax in New Zealand. Winners receive the full prize amount. However, any income earned from investing those winnings is taxable.
Security and Fairness
Lotto NZ holds ISO 27001:2013 and World Lottery Association Security Control Standard certifications, reflecting strong information security practices. Draws follow strict protocols under the Gambling Act 2003 and are overseen by Audit New Zealand, which appoints independent scrutineers present at every draw.
Multiple machines and ball sets are used, stored securely, with selection determined by coin toss. Balls are thoroughly mixed before each draw and inspected regularly to ensure fairness. Draws are broadcast live on television with independent auditors and Lotto NZ staff present, ensuring transparency. The bonus prize Lotto NZ is drawn with the same high standards, guaranteeing fairness and trust.
Customer Support
Lotto NZ offers support via phone, email, and post. General inquiries can be made on 0800 695 6886. Retailers have a dedicated helpdesk at 0800 502 502. The main office is at 73 Remuera Road, Auckland, and the website provides further contact details and help resources.
Responsible Gaming
Lotto NZ runs a Responsible Gaming Programme certified by the World Lottery Association. Online platforms include spending limits, self-exclusion options, and monitoring to prevent underage and problem gambling.
