Cash win replaces sadness

CASH PRIZE: Southey Honda saleswoman Sandy McDonald presents Carterton's Marie Hansen with her $2500 win. PHOTO/ANDREW BONALLACK

Marie Hansen had just returned from burying her cat when she was told by phone she had won $2500 from Honda.

The Carterton woman collected her prize from Southey Honda yesterday, after going into a national draw for those who had recently test-driven a Honda Jazz.

She admitted she had not realised she had entered a draw, and was weeping when Honda phoned to tell her she had won.

"I really didn't register," she said. "I told them to call back in a couple of hours."

Her cat, Hortense, had been 19 years old.

Ms Hansen said the win was "lovely" and she certainly will not forget the day.

Saleswoman Sandy McDonald said Honda run these draws once a month, and so far Southey Honda in Masterton have had three winners."Anyone in New Zealand could have won it."

Ms Hansen also goes into the draw for a Honda Jazz.