Next week's Lotto profits to go to Kaikoura earthquake relief efforts

All profits from next Saturday's Lotto draw are being sent to Kaikoura to help with quake relief efforts.

All profits from the Lotto, Powerball and Strike draw on Saturday December 10 will be donated to the Kaikoura/Hurunui earthquake relief fund, Lotto has announced.

"Our Lotto staff and retailers around the country really want to do something for the people of Kaikoura and we are really pleased to be able to help," said chief executive Wayne Pickup.

"Kiwis love playing Lotto to help support our communities, and the Kaikoura community is in need of help right now.

"We know that Lotto players will be glad to have the opportunity to do their bit to support Kaikoura through their weekly ticket purchase."

He said under the strict laws that govern the game it was not possible to donate the Powerball jackpot to the relief effort.

Lotto NZ has held one previous special purpose lottery, in March 2011, which generated $8 million in funding for Christchurch earthquake relief.

The charity donation is permissible under the Gambling Act 2003, the Ministry of Internal Affairs said.

Minister Peter Dunne called the generosity of New Zealanders in 2011"heartening".

"Sadly, it's now our Kaikoura/Hurunui communities that have been the worst affected following the latest earthquakes.

"All profits from this special draw will go a long way to help Kaikoura/Hurunui rebuild so I encourage all New Zealanders to support this event."

He thanks Lotto NZ and the Lotteries Commission and Grants Board for organising the donation.