Syndicate scoops Lotto million

For most Western Bay residents the only thing that poured last week was the rain - but for one lucky work syndicate their deluge came in the form of a $1 million Lotto first division windfall.
The lucky ticket was bought at Bayfair Lotto and Kiosk in Mount Maunganui on Friday afternoon, and was redeemed about 9.30am yesterday , only moments after the business opened.
Not only did the syndicate members win division one, which netted them $1,059,640, they collected in the third and fifth divisions as well, bringing their winnings to a cool $1,068,715.
The winning ticket was handed over by a couple, representing a work syndicate of five, who were eager to validate their massive win after watching the draw live on television the night before.
Bayfair Lotto and Kiosk worker Yvonne Gordon said the syndicate members were regular customers and it was a real thrill to see them win.
"A couple came in. The husband is actually in the syndicate. They stood there with a funny look on their faces knowing that they had won," Mrs Gordon said.
"Once the ticket registered, I gave them a big hug."
Bayfair Lotto and Kiosk owner Lisa Pepper said the business had sold 11 winning first division tickets along with more than 100 second division winners since it opened 17 years ago, making it the luckiest in the Bay of Plenty.
Bethlehem Four Square sold a second division winner worth $28,000.