Friday the 13th could prove lucky for Lotto players

Could the number 13 be linked to more winners this year? Photo / Supplied

Despite a perception by some that Friday the 13th is an unfortunate day, Lotto players will hope the number again proves to be a lucky charm.

Last year there were 13 Powerball winners, while the most common large amount won in 2016 was $13.3 million.

"The number 13 was certainly lucky for Lotto players last year - we've never had so many $13 million prizes won in a single year," Lotto NZ general manager communications Emilia Mazur said.

"Thirteen Kiwis won big with Powerball in 2016, but we're still waiting for someone to scoop the big one this year."

While statistics suggest the number 13 has nothing to do with a player's chances of winning, the number does have a history.

In 2015 there were 13 Powerball First Division winners.

Five New Zealanders have already won a share of more than $3 million with Lotto First Division during the past two weeks, while a further $10 million is up for grabs with Powerball tomorrow.