$20.5m Lotto winner still a mystery

Windsor Stationery & Lotto owner, Betty Sinclair, has no idea who the winner might be. Photo / Supplied

Invercargill is buzzing over who might be $20.5 million richer.

The winner of the huge Lotto Powerball jackpot is yet to claim the prize, but the shop it was bought in was closed yesterday and the owner hopes they might come forward today.

"I've always said to our customers, 'If you ever win, don't be afraid to call me at home, I'll open up privately for you' but it hasn't happened," said Windsor Stationery & Lotto owner, Betty Sinclair.

She has no idea who the winner might be.

Mrs Sinclair said the win was great for the community and Invercargill - she had many friends calling her up and congratulating her yesterday.

"It's been a wonderful day for us as well, even though we didn't get the $20 million in our bank, it's still very exciting for us."

The store, which Mrs Sinclair and her husband have owned for 15 years, has had a number of winners in the past, but never any as big as this one.

When these ticket-holders claim the prize, they'll be the ninth multi-millionaires this year, said NZ Lotteries chief executive Wayne Pickup.

"A win this big is simply life changing, no matter what your situation - so no doubt they'll be celebrating."

The total prize was made up of $500,000 from Lotto first division and $20 million from Powerball first division.

Another lucky Lotto player from Christchurch also won a $500,000 share of Lotto first division. Their winning ticket was sold at Unichem Bishopdale Pharmacy in Christchurch.