Lotto Rules 2025
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2025/174
Lotto Rules 2025
These rules are made by the New Zealand Lotteries Commission (Lotto New Zealand) under section 243 of the Gambling Act 2003 after approval by the Minister of Internal Affairs.
Contents
Rules
1 Title
These rules are the Lotto Rules 2025.
2 Commencement
These rules come into force on 29 September 2025.
3 Application
(1)
These rules apply to lotto, lotto powerball, and lotto strike tickets, whether they are issued in printed form by a terminal or issued electronically.
(2)
For the purpose of enabling lotto, lotto powerball, and lotto strike tickets to be issued electronically, these rules apply subject to all necessary modifications.
(3)
Despite subclause (2), an act that is described in these rules as being done electronically must be done in accordance with any additional instructions provided by the Commission, including any terms and conditions governing the use of the Commission’s internet site.
4 Interpretation
In these rules, unless the context otherwise requires,—
Act means the Gambling Act 2003
advance selection,—
(a)
in relation to a game or games specified by the Commission that follow the game that is current at the time of selection, means—
(i)
a standard lotto selection; or
(ii)
a lotto powerball selection; or
(iii)
a lotto strike selection; but
(b)
does not include a multi-draw selection
board means a grid of numbers that allows—
(a)
a player selection to be made for standard lotto, lotto powerball, or lotto strike; or
(b)
1 or more lucky dip selections to be made for standard lotto, lotto powerball, or lotto strike
bonus number means the seventh number between 1 and 40 (inclusive) that is selected on a random basis at each drawing
combo lucky dip selection means a combo selection in which the numbers to be combined to determine standard lotto selections are chosen on a random basis by the Commission’s computer system
combo selection means the selection of the following numbers as standard lotto selections in accordance with any of the following systems:
(a)
each combination of 6 different numbers derived from combining a set of 5 different numbers between 1 and 40 (inclusive) (the 5 different numbers being chosen by the player), with each number between 1 and 40 (inclusive) remaining unchosen (called system 5); or
(b)
each combination of 6 different numbers that can be derived from a set of 7 (called system 7), 8 (called system 8), 9 (called system 9), 10 (called system 10), 11 (called system 11), 12 (called system 12), 13 (called system 13), 14 (called system 14), or 15 (called system 15) different numbers chosen by a player from the numbers between 1 and 40 (inclusive)
commercial syndicate means a syndicate in or for which any person—
(a)
obtains direct or indirect financial gain for forming, conducting, assisting in forming or conducting, or promoting the syndicate; or
(b)
advertises, by any means, that they will receive money for the syndicate
Commission means the New Zealand Lotteries Commission continued under the Act
coupon means a coupon provided by the Commission in printed form or by electronic means that contains at least 1 board for use in making a player selection or a lucky dip selection
drawing means—
(a)
the process that is used to select, on a random basis, the standard lotto winning numbers, the bonus number, and the lotto strike winning numbers; and
(b)
the process that is used to select, on a random basis, the lotto powerball winning number
electronic includes electrical, digital, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, biometric, and photonic
game means a game of lotto beginning at the time ticket sales for the game commence and ending with a drawing on a date determined by the Commission before the game begins
issued electronically, in relation to a ticket,—
(a)
means a ticket issued by the Commission by electronic means; but
(b)
does not include a ticket issued by any other retailer
lotto means any form of lotto offered by the Commission, being standard lotto, lotto powerball, or lotto strike, in which a player endeavours to select a number or group of numbers to be drawn from a larger group of numbers
lotto powerball means the form of lotto in which a player—
(a)
makes a lotto powerball selection in conjunction with a standard lotto selection; and
(b)
attempts to match both—
(i)
the lotto powerball selection with the lotto powerball winning number; and
(ii)
the standard lotto selection with the standard lotto winning numbers
lotto powerball selection means the selection of 1 number from a group of numbers between 1 and 10 (inclusive) made in conjunction with a standard lotto selection in accordance with these rules, and includes the number selected
lotto powerball winning number means the number drawn from a group of numbers between 1 and 10 (inclusive) after the standard lotto winning numbers and the bonus number have been drawn
lotto prize claim form means the form supplied by the Commission to enable a player to claim prizes from the Commission
lotto strike means the form of lotto in which a player attempts to match, in the same order and position, their lotto strike selection with the lotto strike winning numbers
lotto strike selection means the selection of 4 different numbers between 1 and 40 (inclusive) made in accordance with these rules, and includes the numbers selected
lotto strike winning numbers means the first 4 standard lotto winning numbers in the same order and position as those first 4 numbers are drawn at a drawing
lucky dip selection means,—
(a)
in relation to standard lotto, 6 different numbers that are chosen from the numbers between 1 and 40 (inclusive) on a random basis by the Commission’s computer system:
(b)
in relation to lotto powerball, a number chosen from the numbers between 1 and 10 (inclusive) on a random basis by the Commission’s computer system:
(c)
in relation to lotto strike, 4 different numbers that are chosen from the numbers between 1 and 40 (inclusive) on a random basis by the Commission’s computer system
multi-draw selection means a selection for 2 or more games of standard lotto, lotto powerball, or lotto strike
play it again selection means a selection made using a play it again ticket in accordance with these rules
play it again ticket means a ticket that—
(a)
is issued in printed form by a terminal; and
(b)
the Commission has determined as being valid for the purpose of processing a new ticket
player means a person participating in a game
player selection means,—
(a)
in relation to standard lotto,—
(i)
6 different numbers chosen by a player on a board for standard lotto; or
(ii)
5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, or 15 different numbers, being a combo selection, chosen by a player on a board for standard lotto:
(b)
in relation to lotto powerball, a number between 1 and 10 (inclusive) chosen by a player on a board for lotto powerball:
(c)
in relation to lotto strike, 4 different numbers chosen by a player on a board for lotto strike
players’ agent means an agent approved by the Commission to undertake, on behalf of players, the services described in rule 22
prize reserve fund means the fund established by the Commission under rule 41
retailer—
(a)
means the Commission; and
(b)
includes any person, company, partnership, or association appointed by the Commission as a selling agent for 1 or more forms of lotto
selection means—
(a)
a standard lotto selection; or
(b)
a lotto strike selection; or
(c)
a lotto powerball selection
standard lotto means the form of lotto in which a player attempts to match their standard lotto selection with the standard lotto winning numbers
standard lotto selection means the selection of 6 numbers between 1 and 40 (inclusive) in accordance with these rules; and includes the numbers selected
standard lotto winning numbers means the first 6 numbers between 1 and 40 (inclusive) that are selected on a random basis at each drawing
syndicate means any combination of persons, whether formal or informal, that has as its purpose, or as one of its purposes, the sharing directly or indirectly in the prizes of a game
terminal means an online computer terminal installed or approved by the Commission for the purpose of issuing tickets and entering, receiving, and processing lotto transactions
ticket means a ticket that—
(a)
records selections, the game number or numbers, cost, and other information as determined by the Commission; and
(b)
is either issued in printed form by a terminal or issued electronically
turnover, in relation to a game, means the gross receipts from total ticket sales for that game, less the total of—
(a)
the amount of goods and services tax charged in respect of the supply of services by the Commission to players in the game; and
(b)
the amount of lottery duty payable by the Commission under the Gaming Duties Act 1971 in respect of the game
winning numbers means,—
(a)
in relation to standard lotto, the standard lotto winning numbers:
(b)
in relation to lotto powerball, the lotto powerball winning number and the standard lotto winning numbers:
(c)
in relation to lotto strike, the lotto strike winning numbers
winning selection means, in relation to a game,—
(a)
a standard lotto selection recorded on a ticket that correctly matches the standard lotto winning numbers in that game:
(b)
a lotto powerball selection recorded on a ticket if—
(i)
the lotto powerball selection correctly matches the lotto powerball winning number in that game; and
(ii)
the standard lotto selection (that the lotto powerball selection has been issued in conjunction with) correctly matches the standard lotto winning numbers in that game:
(c)
a lotto strike selection recorded on a ticket that correctly matches the lotto strike winning numbers in that game.
5 Meaning of terms if prizes payable in kind
If the Commission makes a determination under rule 48(2),—
payment includes the handing over of a prize in kind
prize includes a prize payable in kind
prize money includes the monetary value of a prize payable in kind.
6 Transitional, savings, and related provisions
The transitional, savings, and related provisions set out in Schedule 1 have effect according to their terms.
7 Forms of lotto offered by Commission
(1)
The Commission must offer standard lotto.
(2)
In addition, the Commission may offer—
(a)
lotto powerball:
(b)
lotto strike.
8 Playing lotto powerball or lotto strike in conjunction with standard lotto
(1)
A player may make a lotto powerball selection only if the player makes a standard lotto selection in conjunction with the lotto powerball selection.
(2)
Unless the Commission determines otherwise, it is a condition of playing lotto strike that it must be played in conjunction with standard lotto.
(3)
A standard lotto selection made for the purpose of playing lotto powerball may also be used for the purpose of playing lotto strike.
9 Object of lotto
The objective of a player in a game of lotto is to correctly select the winning numbers for the game entered.
Part 1 Method of play
10 Cost of selection
The cost of—
(a)
a standard lotto selection is 70 cents:
(b)
a lotto powerball selection is 80 cents:
(c)
a lotto strike selection is $1.
11 Commission may require minimum number of selections
The Commission may require a player to make, at any one time, a minimum number of standard lotto, lotto powerball, or lotto strike selections.
12 Making a selection
The Commission may permit a player to make a selection by any 1 or more of the following means:
(a)
for a ticket issued in printed form by a terminal,—
(i)
by marking a coupon by hand, submitting that coupon to a retailer for processing, and requesting that the retailer—
(A)
issue a ticket recording the selection marked on the coupon; or
(B)
modify the selection recorded on the coupon in a manner permitted by the Commission’s computer system and issue a ticket that records the modified selection:
(ii)
by requesting from a retailer a lucky dip selection or a combo lucky dip selection:
(iii)
by submitting a play it again ticket to a retailer for processing and requesting that the retailer—
(A)
issue a ticket that records a selection that is identical to the selection recorded on the play it again ticket; or
(B)
modify the selection that is recorded on the play it again ticket in a manner permitted by the Commission’s computer system and issue a ticket that records the modified selection:
(iv)
by requesting from a retailer a lotto powerball selection of the player’s choosing:
(v)
by making the selection in an electronic manner permitted by the Commission and using that selection to request a ticket from the Commission’s computer system at a retail outlet:
(b)
for a ticket issued electronically,—
(i)
by making the selection electronically on a coupon and electronically submitting the coupon:
(ii)
by making the selection electronically in any other manner permitted by the Commission:
(iii)
by indicating electronically, in a manner permitted by the Commission, that the player wants a lucky dip selection or a combo lucky dip selection.
13 Lotto powerball
(1)
If a player—
(a)
makes a lotto powerball selection, the lotto powerball selection applies—
(i)
in conjunction with each standard lotto selection chosen by the player on their coupon:
(ii)
in respect of a lucky dip selection or a combo lucky dip selection, in conjunction with each standard lotto selection made by the Commission’s computer system:
(b)
requests that the Commission’s computer system choose on a random basis the player’s lotto powerball selection, the selection made by the Commission’s computer system applies—
(i)
in conjunction with each standard lotto selection chosen by the player on their coupon:
(ii)
in respect of a lucky dip selection or a combo lucky dip selection, in conjunction with each standard lotto selection made by the Commission’s computer system.
(2)
Subclause (3) applies if, under subclause (1)(a), a player makes—
(a)
fewer lotto powerball selections than the number of standard lotto selections on the player’s coupon; or
(b)
in respect of a lucky dip selection or a combo lucky dip selection, fewer lotto powerball selections than the number of standard lotto selections made by the Commission’s computer system.
(3)
If this subclause applies and unless otherwise specified by a player on their coupon, the player’s lotto powerball selections apply in conjunction with the first standard lotto selection, and then the second standard lotto selection, and so on, until each lotto powerball selection applies in conjunction with a standard lotto selection.
(4)
Subclause (5) applies if, under subclause (1)(b), a player requests—
(a)
fewer lotto powerball selections than the number of standard lotto selections on the player’s coupon; or
(b)
in respect of a lucky dip selection or a combo lucky dip selection, fewer lotto powerball selections than the number of standard lotto selections made by the Commission’s computer system.
(5)
If this subclause applies, the Commission’s computer system chooses, on a random basis, the player’s lotto powerball selections in conjunction with the first standard lotto selection, and then the second standard lotto selection, and so on, until each lotto powerball selection applies in conjunction with a standard lotto selection.
14 Requirements for marking coupon by hand
(1)
A player who marks a coupon must mark, by hand, 1 or more boxes on a board on the coupon with a line that does not extend beyond the outline of the box of the number marked.
(2)
A board on a coupon that is not marked by hand in accordance with subclause (1), but is marked by a machine or some other means, is invalid and must not be processed by the retailer.
15 Application of rules 16 to 22
16 Entry into game
(1)
Each selection on a ticket is a separate entry for a game.
(2)
A ticket is the only proof of a selection and is accordingly the only valid basis for claiming prizes.
(3)
The following items have no monetary or prize value and do not in any circumstances constitute evidence of the purchase of a ticket or a selection:
(a)
a coupon:
(b)
a selection made in an electronic manner.
17 Cancellation of ticket issued in printed form
(1)
Subject to rules 19(4), 22(7), and 63(2), a ticket issued in printed form by a terminal may be cancelled only if, on the same day that it is purchased, it is returned to the issuing retailer before the close of ticket sales on that day.
(2)
Subject to rule 63(2), a ticket issued in printed form by a terminal purchased on the day of drawing and eligible for that drawing may be cancelled only if it is returned to the issuing retailer on that day before ticket sales for the game close.
(3)
On cancellation of a ticket issued in printed form by a terminal, the player is entitled to a refund from the retailer equal to the cost of the ticket.
(4)
If a ticket issued in printed form by a terminal for any form of lotto is cancelled, all selections recorded on the ticket are cancelled.
18 Cancellation of ticket issued electronically
(1)
A ticket issued electronically may be cancelled only by the Commission and only if—
(a)
the Commission considers on reasonable grounds that the ticket was incorrectly or fraudulently produced; or
(b)
the ticket was issued for the purposes of system testing undertaken by the Commission.
(2)
If a ticket issued electronically for any form of lotto is cancelled, all selections recorded on the ticket are cancelled.
19 Player responsibility
(1)
It is the sole responsibility of a player to verify that the selections recorded or displayed on the ticket correspond with those that the player made or requested and that the game number and date of drawing are correct, either, as the case may be,—
(a)
by checking the ticket issued in printed form by a terminal; or
(b)
before confirming the purchase of the ticket that is to be issued electronically.
(2)
By accepting a ticket issued in printed form by a terminal, the player is taken to have accepted that the selections recorded on the ticket correspond with those that the player made or requested.
(3)
Neither the Commission nor any other retailer is in any circumstances liable for any errors or omissions in respect of the information recorded on any ticket (whether details of selection, game numbers, or otherwise).
(4)
Cancellation of a ticket under rule 17 constitutes a player’s or other claimant’s only remedy if there is an error or omission on a ticket.
20 Advance selections
(1)
The Commission may, but is not required to, permit a player to make an advance selection by advising the retailer, or indicating electronically, that the player wishes to make an advance selection.
(2)
In all other respects, the advance selection must be made in accordance with these rules.
21 Multi-draw selections
(1)
The Commission may, but is not required to, permit a player to make a multi-draw selection for 2 or more games of lotto by—
(a)
marking by hand the appropriate multi-draw box on a coupon to indicate the number of games for which the player’s selections or lucky dip selections have been made; or
(b)
advising the retailer of, or indicating electronically, the number of games for which the player wishes the player’s selections or lucky dip selections to apply.
(2)
The Commission may require a player making a multi-draw selection for lotto powerball or lotto strike to make that selection for the same number of games as the multi-draw selection for standard lotto being played in conjunction with the games of lotto powerball or lotto strike.
(3)
In all other respects, the entry must be completed and selections made in accordance with these rules.
(4)
If a ticket for a multi-draw selection that is issued in printed form by a terminal entitles the bearer of the ticket to be paid a prize, the bearer of the winning ticket must, on surrender of the ticket, be issued with a substitute ticket for any games entered that have not been drawn at the time the ticket is surrendered.
22 Players’ agents
(1)
A players’ agent may, at premises approved by the Commission, accept completed coupons for lotto on behalf of a player, forward the coupons to the terminal of the players’ agent for the issue of a ticket, and then forward the ticket to the player.
(2)
A ticket issued in accordance with subclause (1) is for the next game following the game that is current at the time the ticket is issued.
(3)
In addition to receiving from a player the cost of their selections, a players’ agent is entitled to charge the player a fee for having the player’s coupon processed and forwarding the ticket to the player.
(4)
The amount of the fee charged in accordance with subclause (3) is the amount approved by the Commission.
(5)
If, at the time of processing a coupon, any selection is found to be invalid or deficient, the players’ agent processing the coupon must,—
(a)
if too many numbers are marked, delete the highest number or numbers from the selection:
(b)
if too few numbers are marked, select 1 or more numbers at random to complete the player’s selection:
(c)
in any other case, at the discretion of the Commission or the players’ agent processing the coupon, either remedy the error and process the coupon, or refer the error back to the player for correction.
(6)
A player who uses a players’ agent must bear and accept (without recourse to either the Commission or the players’ agent) the consequences of any failure to win a prize or prizes due to delays, errors, or omissions on the part of a players’ agent in processing coupons or that arise from loss of coupons or tickets in transit.
(7)
Tickets issued to players using the services of a players’ agent may not be cancelled.
Part 2 Draws and divisions of prizes
Drawing of numbers
23 Procedure for drawings
Drawings must be conducted in accordance with the Act at times and places, and in accordance with the methods, policies, and procedures, determined by the Commission.
24 Selection of winning numbers
(1)
Drawings must be made using electro-mechanical drawing equipment or any other equipment that the Commission may determine.
(2)
At each drawing, the following must be randomly selected:
(a)
the standard lotto winning numbers; and
(b)
the bonus number; and
(c)
the lotto powerball winning number.
Standard lotto
25 Amount of prize pool for game of standard lotto
(1)
The prize pool for a game of standard lotto must be determined by the Commission, but must be an amount of not less than 60% of the turnover for the game.
(2)
The Commission may, if it thinks fit, set aside from out of the prize pool for a game of standard lotto an amount, up to a maximum amount of 5% of ticket sales for the game, to be paid into the prize reserve fund under rule 41(1)(a).
(3)
The available prize pool for a game of standard lotto therefore comprises—
(a)
the prize pool for the game as determined by the Commission under subclause (1), less any amount set aside for the prize reserve fund; and
(b)
any additional amounts included in the prize pool under rule 26(3).
(4)
The prize pool for a game of standard lotto is available to pay a prize for a winning selection in relation to standard lotto made in conjunction with a lotto powerball selection.
26 Division of prizes and allocation of prize pool for standard lotto
(1)
The prize divisions in a game of standard lotto are as follows:
(a)
division one, being a standard lotto selection that correctly matches, in any order, the 6 standard lotto winning numbers drawn in that game:
(b)
division two, being a standard lotto selection that correctly matches, in any order, 5 of the 6 standard lotto winning numbers drawn plus the bonus number drawn in that game:
(c)
division three, being a standard lotto selection that correctly matches, in any order, 5 of the 6 standard lotto winning numbers drawn in that game:
(d)
division four, being a standard lotto selection that correctly matches, in any order, 4 of the 6 standard lotto winning numbers drawn plus the bonus number drawn in that game:
(e)
division five, being a standard lotto selection that correctly matches, in any order, 4 of the 6 standard lotto winning numbers drawn in that game:
(f)
division six, being a standard lotto selection that correctly matches, in any order, 3 of the 6 standard lotto winning numbers drawn plus the bonus number drawn in that game:
(g)
division seven, being a standard lotto selection that correctly matches, in any order, 3 of the 6 standard lotto winning numbers drawn in that game.
(2)
The prize pool for a game of standard lotto determined in accordance with rule 25(1), less any amount set aside for the prize reserve fund under rule 25(2), must be allocated between the prize divisions as follows:
(a)
division one, 32.520% of the prize pool for the game after division seven prizes have been allocated:
(b)
division two, 10.990% of the prize pool for the game after division seven prizes have been allocated:
(c)
division three, 10.900% of the prize pool for the game after division seven prizes have been allocated:
(d)
division four, 2.500% of the prize pool for the game after division seven prizes have been allocated:
(e)
division five, 21.780% of the prize pool for the game after division seven prizes have been allocated:
(f)
division six, 21.310% of the prize pool for the game after division seven prizes have been allocated:
(g)
division seven, $2.80 for each winning standard lotto selection in this division to be paid and satisfied with 4 bonus standard lotto selections in accordance with rule 59.
(3)
(4)
In all prize divisions except division seven, the allocation of the available prize pool between prize divisions is not subject to rounding off.
(5)
A standard lotto selection in a game of standard lotto includes a standard lotto selection made in conjunction with a lotto powerball selection.
27 Commission may determine maximum allocation for division one
(1)
The Commission may determine the maximum amount that may be allocated to division one out of the prize pool for a game of standard lotto.
(2)
If, in a game of standard lotto, the allocation for division one under rule 26(2)(a) exceeds the maximum allocation determined by the Commission under subclause (1) for that game, the Commission must set aside the amount of the excess from the allocation for division one and pay it into the prize reserve fund.
28 Portion of prize pool paid into prize reserve fund if no division one winning selection for standard lotto
If, as a result of any drawing, there is no division one winning selection in a game of standard lotto, the portion of the prize pool that was allocated to division one for that drawing must be paid into the prize reserve fund.
Lotto powerball
29 Amount of prize pool for game of lotto powerball
(1)
The prize pool for a game of lotto powerball must be determined by the Commission, but must be an amount of not less than 60% of the turnover for the game.
(2)
The Commission may, if it thinks fit, set aside from out of the prize pool for each game of lotto powerball an amount, up to a maximum amount of 10% of the ticket sales for the game, to be paid into the prize reserve fund under rule 41(1)(a).
(3)
The available prize pool for a game of lotto powerball therefore comprises—
(a)
the prize pool for that game as determined by the Commission under subclause (1), less any amount set aside for the prize reserve fund; and
(b)
any additional amounts included in the prize pool under rule 30(3).
30 Division of prizes and allocation of prize pool for lotto powerball
(1)
The prize divisions in a game of lotto powerball are as follows:
(a)
division one, being—
(i)
a lotto powerball selection that correctly matches the lotto powerball winning number drawn in that game; and
(ii)
a standard lotto selection that it has been issued in conjunction with and that correctly matches, in any order, the 6 standard lotto winning numbers drawn in that game:
(b)
division two, being—
(i)
a lotto powerball selection that correctly matches the lotto powerball winning number drawn in that game; and
(ii)
a standard lotto selection that it has been issued in conjunction with and that correctly matches, in any order, 5 of the 6 standard lotto winning numbers drawn in that game plus the bonus number drawn in that game:
(c)
division three, being—
(i)
a lotto powerball selection that correctly matches the lotto powerball winning number drawn in that game; and
(ii)
a standard lotto selection that it has been issued in conjunction with and that correctly matches, in any order, 5 of the 6 standard lotto winning numbers drawn in that game:
(d)
division four, being—
(i)
a lotto powerball selection that correctly matches the lotto powerball winning number drawn in that game; and
(ii)
a standard lotto selection that it has been issued in conjunction with and that correctly matches, in any order, 4 of the 6 standard lotto winning numbers drawn in that game plus the bonus number drawn in that game:
(e)
division five, being—
(i)
a lotto powerball selection that correctly matches the lotto powerball winning number drawn in that game; and
(ii)
a standard lotto selection that it has been issued in conjunction with and that correctly matches, in any order, 4 of the 6 standard lotto winning numbers drawn in that game:
(f)
division six, being—
(i)
a lotto powerball selection that correctly matches the lotto powerball winning number drawn in that game; and
(ii)
a standard lotto selection that it has been issued in conjunction with and that correctly matches, in any order, 3 of the 6 standard lotto winning numbers drawn in that game plus the bonus number drawn in that game:
(g)
division seven, being—
(i)
a lotto powerball selection that correctly matches the lotto powerball winning number drawn in that game; and
(ii)
a standard lotto selection that it has been issued in conjunction with and that correctly matches, in any order, 3 of the 6 standard lotto winning numbers drawn in that game.
(2)
The prize pool for a game of lotto powerball determined in accordance with rule 29(1), less any amount set aside for the prize reserve fund under rule 29(2), must be allocated between the prize divisions as follows:
(a)
division one, 94.720% of the prize pool for the game after division seven prizes have been allocated:
(b)
division two, 0.850% of the prize pool for the game after division seven prizes have been allocated:
(c)
division three, 0.900% of the prize pool for the game after division seven prizes have been allocated:
(d)
division four, 0.210% of the prize pool for the game after division seven prizes have been allocated:
(e)
division five, 1.760% of the prize pool for the game after division seven prizes have been allocated:
(f)
division six, 1.560% of the prize pool for the game after division seven prizes have been allocated:
(g)
division seven, $15 for each winning lotto powerball selection in this division.
(3)
There must also be included in the available prize pool or, as applicable, in a particular division or divisions of the available prize pool,—
(b)
any allocations made by the Commission from the prize reserve fund; and
(4)
In all prize divisions except division seven, the allocation of the available prize pool between prize divisions is not subject to rounding off.
31 Commission may determine maximum allocation for lotto powerball division one
(1)
The Commission may determine the maximum amount that may be allocated to division one out of the prize pool for a game of lotto powerball.
(2)
If, in a game of lotto powerball, the allocation for division one under rule 30(2)(a) exceeds the maximum allocation determined by the Commission under subclause (1) for that game, the Commission must set aside the amount of the excess from the allocation for division one and pay it into the prize reserve fund.
32 Threshold amount, maximum number of games, and specified lotto powerball date
(1)
For the purposes of rules 33 and 34, the Commission—
(a)
must determine for division one—
(i)
the maximum amount of the allocation of the prize pool (the lotto powerball threshold amount); and
(ii)
the maximum number of games of lotto powerball for which a jackpot may occur (the maximum number of lotto powerball games):
(b)
may nominate a specified date on which, if there is no division one winning selection in the drawing of the lotto powerball game on that date, the total division one prize pool that may be won in that game must be added to the prize pool allocation for the next-lowest prize division of that game with 1 or more winning selections (the specified lotto powerball date).
(2)
The Commission may, from time to time, revoke a determination made under subclause (1)(a) and make another determination under that subclause that takes effect after the division one prize pool has been won or allocated under the determination being revoked.
(3)
The Commission must, as soon as is reasonably practicable after making a determination or a nomination under subclause (1), give public notice of the determination or nomination in the manner that the Commission thinks fit.
33 Jackpots for lotto powerball
(1)
This rule applies if, as a result of any drawing, there is no division one winning selection for a game of lotto powerball.
(2)
The portion of the available prize pool for the game that was allocated to division one in that drawing must be added, subject to subclause (3), to the division one allocation in the next game (a jackpot).
(3)
A jackpot may not occur—
(a)
if, as at the conclusion of the drawing referred to in subclause (1), the jackpot would result in the division one allocation in the next game exceeding the threshold amount for division one; or
(b)
for more than the maximum number of lotto powerball games for division one.
(4)
If a jackpot may not occur because of subclause (3), the division one allocation must be added to the prize pool allocation for the next-lowest prize division with 1 or more winning selections.
34 Specified lotto powerball date
If there is no division one winning selection in a game of lotto powerball on a specified lotto powerball date, the division one prize pool allocation for that game (including any additions under rule 33) must be added to the prize pool allocation for the next-lowest prize division with 1 or more winning selections.
Lotto strike
35 Amount of prize pool for game of lotto strike
(1)
The prize pool for a game of lotto strike must be determined by the Commission, but must be an amount of not less than 60% of the turnover for the game.
(2)
The Commission may, if it thinks fit, set aside from out of the prize pool for a game of lotto strike an amount, up to a maximum amount of 3% of ticket sales for the game, to be paid into the prize reserve fund under rule 41(1)(a).
(3)
The available prize pool for a game of lotto strike therefore comprises—
(a)
the prize pool for the game as determined by the Commission under subclause (1), less any amount set aside for the prize reserve fund; and
(b)
any additional amounts included in the prize pool under rule 36(3).
36 Division of prizes and allocation of prize pool for lotto strike
(1)
The prize divisions in a game of lotto strike are as follows:
(a)
division one, being a lotto strike selection that correctly matches in the same order and position as drawn the 4 lotto strike winning numbers so that the lotto strike selection matches—
(i)
the first number with the first lotto strike winning number; and
(ii)
the second number with the second lotto strike winning number; and
(iii)
the third number with the third lotto strike winning number; and
(iv)
the fourth number with the fourth lotto strike winning number:
(b)
division two, being a lotto strike selection that correctly matches in the same order and position as drawn any 3 of the 4 lotto strike winning numbers:
(c)
division three, being a lotto strike selection that correctly matches in the same order and position as drawn any 2 of the 4 lotto strike winning numbers:
(d)
division four, being a lotto strike selection that correctly matches in the same order and position as drawn any 1 of the 4 lotto strike winning numbers.
(2)
The prize pool for a game of lotto strike determined in accordance with rule 35(1), less any amount set aside for the prize reserve fund under rule 35(2), must be allocated between the prize divisions as follows:
(a)
division one, 36.910% of the prize pool for the game after division four prizes have been allocated:
(b)
division two, 9.590% of the prize pool for the game after division four prizes have been allocated:
(c)
division three, 53.500% of the prize pool for the game after division four prizes have been allocated:
(d)
division four, $1 for each winning lotto strike selection in this division to be paid and satisfied as a bonus lotto strike selection in accordance with rule 60.
(3)
There must also be included in the available prize pool or, as applicable, in a particular division or divisions of the available prize pool,—
(b)
any allocations made by the Commission from the prize reserve fund; and
(4)
In all prize divisions, except division four, the allocation of the available prize pool between prize divisions is not subject to rounding off.
37 Commission may determine maximum allocation for lotto strike division one
(1)
The Commission may determine the maximum amount that may be allocated to division one out of the prize pool for a game of lotto strike.
(2)
If, in a game of lotto strike, the allocation for division one under rule 36(2)(a) exceeds the maximum allocation determined by the Commission under subclause (1) for that game, the Commission must set aside the amount of the excess from the allocation for division one and pay it into the prize reserve fund.
38 Threshold amount, maximum number of games, and specified lotto strike date
(1)
For the purposes of rules 39 and 40, the Commission—
(a)
must determine for division one—
(i)
the maximum amount of the allocation of the prize pool (the lotto strike threshold amount); and
(ii)
the maximum number of games of lotto strike for which a jackpot may occur (the maximum number of lotto strike games):
(b)
may nominate a specified date on which, if there is no division one winning selection in the drawing of the lotto strike game on that date, the total division one prize pool that may be won in that game must be added to the prize pool allocation for the next-lowest prize division of that game with 1 or more winning selections (the specified lotto strike date).
(2)
The Commission may, from time to time, revoke a determination made under subclause (1)(a) and make another determination under that subclause that takes effect after the division one prize pool has been won or allocated under the determination being revoked.
(3)
The Commission must, as soon as is reasonably practicable after making a determination or a nomination under subclause (1), give public notice of the determination or nomination in the manner that the Commission thinks fit.
39 Jackpots for lotto strike
(1)
This rule applies if, as a result of any drawing, there is no division one winning selection for a game of lotto strike.
(2)
The portion of the available prize pool for the game that was allocated to division one in that drawing must be added, subject to subclause (3), to the division one allocation in the next game (a jackpot).
(3)
A jackpot may not occur—
(a)
if, as at the conclusion of the drawing referred to in subclause (1), the jackpot would result in the division one allocation in the next game exceeding the lotto strike threshold amount for division one; or
(b)
for more than the maximum number of lotto strike games for division one.
(4)
If a jackpot may not occur because of subclause (3), the division one allocation must be added to the prize pool allocation for the next-lowest prize division with 1 or more winning selections.
40 Specified lotto strike date
If there is no division one winning selection in a game of lotto strike on a specified lotto strike date, the division one prize pool allocation for that game (including any additions under rule 39) must be added to the prize pool allocation for the next-lowest prize division with 1 or more winning selections.
General provisions
41 Prize reserve fund
(1)
The Commission must continue a prize reserve fund into which must be paid—
(a)
those amounts that the Commission—
(i)
may set aside for payment into the fund under rule 25(2), 29(2), or 35(2); or
(ii)
must pay into the fund under rule 27(2), 28, 31(2), 37(2), or 43(3); and
(b)
(c)
prize money unclaimed after 12 months from the date of the drawing as a result of which the prize was won; and
(d)
those sums of money that are permitted or required, by rules made under section 243 of the Act, to be paid into the prize reserve fund.
(2)
The Commission may, either before or after a drawing, allocate from the prize reserve fund any sum of money that it sees fit—
(a)
to the total available prize pool for any game; or
(b)
to a particular prize allocation for a prize division or divisions of any game (other than a prize division that has a fixed prize); or
(c)
to any extraordinary prize determined in accordance with rule 46.
(3)
Any sum of money may be allocated from the prize reserve fund, in accordance with rules made under section 243 of the Act, for the purposes of any New Zealand lottery, New Zealand instant game, or New Zealand prize competition.
42 Reallocation of prize pool if no winning selection in divisions below division one
(1)
If, in any drawing, there is no winning selection in any division below division one, then that portion of the prize pool allocated to that prize division must be added to the prize pool allocated to the next-lowest prize division in the game with a winning selection.
(2)
If there is no lower prize division with a winning selection, the portion of the prize pool concerned must be added to the total available prize pool for the next game of standard lotto, lotto powerball, or lotto strike, as the case may be.
(3)
This rule does not apply to a prize division that has a fixed prize (division seven of standard lotto, division seven of lotto powerball, and division four of lotto strike).
43 More than 1 winning selection in prize division
(1)
If, in any game, there is more than 1 winning selection in any prize division, the prize money allocated to that division must be shared equally between each player or other claimant with a winning selection in the division.
(2)
On a sharing of the prize allocation for any prize division, the amount distributed to each player or other claimant with a winning selection must be rounded as follows:
(a)
a prize amount that is 50 cents or more above an amount in dollars must be rounded up to the nearest dollar; and
(b)
a prize amount that is less than 50 cents above an amount in dollars must be rounded down to the nearest dollar.
(3)
Any money left over after the rounding process required by subclause (2) has been carried out must be paid into the prize reserve fund.
(4)
This rule does not apply to a prize division that has a fixed prize (division seven of standard lotto, division seven of lotto powerball, and division four of lotto strike).
44 No more than 1 prize for each winning selection
Each winning selection is eligible for 1 prize only.
45 Results
(1)
The results of each drawing must be displayed by retailers in their lotto sales premises as soon as practicable after each drawing and may also be published in any other manner that the Commission may determine.
(2)
The information displayed and published must include—
(a)
the number of the game; and
(b)
the winning numbers and the bonus number; and
(c)
the total prize pool for the game; and
(d)
the amount payable for each winning selection in each prize division for each lotto game; and
(e)
any other information as the Commission may determine.
(3)
The Commission must maintain a record of the results of a drawing for at least 12 months after the drawing.
(4)
The Commission may publish the name of any division one or division two prize winner who, on the lotto prize claim form, authorises the publication of their name as a prize winner.
46 Extraordinary prizes
(1)
The Commission may—
(a)
determine to conduct a draw for extraordinary prizes in a game; and
(b)
determine—
(i)
the value of the extraordinary prizes to be distributed in accordance with the draw; and
(ii)
the class of player, or classes of players, that may enter the draw; and
(c)
conduct the draw.
(2)
In subclause (1), draw means a draw that—
(a)
may be entered—
(i)
by members of a particular class of players; or
(ii)
by members of particular classes of players; or
(iii)
by members of all classes of players; and
(b)
determines the players entitled to extraordinary prizes—
(i)
by lot; or
(ii)
on a random basis; or
(iii)
wholly by chance.
(3)
Any sum or sums of money for extraordinary prizes must be allocated from the prize reserve fund.
(4)
This rule is not affected by rule 44.
47 Commission may offer opportunity to win alternative prize
(1)
The Commission may also offer a player who has won a prize in a draw conducted in accordance with rule 46 the opportunity to win an alternative prize of equal or greater value instead of the prize that the player is entitled to under that rule if the player agrees to any reasonable conditions relating to media appearance as the Commission determines.
(2)
Any sum or sums of money for an alternative prize under subclause (1) must be allocated from the prize reserve fund.
(3)
This rule is not affected by rule 44.
Part 3 Payment of prizes and ticket validation requirements
48 Payment of prizes
(1)
Prizes payable to players are payable in money.
(2)
However, the Commission may determine that prizes payable to players are payable in kind.
(3)
A prize that is won through a ticket issued in printed form by a terminal and is payable to a player in accordance with these rules may be claimed on and from the day following the date of the drawing as a result of which the prize has been won.
(4)
That prize is available for payment only when the terminal and the Commission’s online gaming computer system are operating.
49 Determination of prize claims
(1)
In all cases, the determination of prize entitlement is subject to the ticket validation requirements set out in rule 51.
(2)
A ticket issued in printed form by a terminal must in all circumstances be regarded by the Commission and by retailers as being owned by the physical possessor (the bearer) of the ticket determined in accordance with these rules.
(3)
The person named on a duly completed lotto prize claim form must be treated as the bearer of the ticket accompanying the lotto prize claim form.
50 Further provisions relating to determination of prize claims
(1)
For the purposes of rule 49(3), if more than 1 person is named on a lotto prize claim form, the person named first must be treated as the bearer of the accompanying ticket.
(2)
Even though a ticket bears the name or other identification of another person or a syndicate, retailers—
(a)
must recognise only the bearer of the ticket as the owner; and
(b)
except as ordered by a court of competent jurisdiction, are not bound to take notice of any trust (express, implied, or constructive) to which any ticket or prize money may be subject.
(3)
The surrender of a ticket to a retailer and the receipt by the bearer of the ticket of any prize money payable in respect of the ticket are a good and complete discharge of the Commission’s obligations, despite any notice the Commission may have of the alleged right, title, interest, or claim of any other person or persons to the prize money.
(4)
Neither the Commission nor any other retailer is responsible or liable as a result of the payment of a prize to the bearer of any lost or stolen ticket, whether or not advice of the loss or theft has been reported or notified to the Commission before payment of the prize.
51 Ticket validation requirements
(1)
In addition to any other requirements in these rules, the requirements in subclause (2) or, as the case may be, subclause (3) apply before a ticket is regarded as a valid prize-winning ticket.
(2)
For a ticket issued in printed form by a terminal,—
(a)
the ticket must include 1 or more selections that are winning selections:
(b)
the ticket must have been issued on behalf of the Commission through a terminal at a retail outlet in the authorised manner:
(c)
the ticket must be intact and must not be mutilated, altered, unreadable, reconstituted, or tampered with in any manner:
(d)
the information recorded on the ticket must correspond with the Commission’s computer record of prize-winning tickets:
(e)
each number on the ticket, whether a selection number, game number, or otherwise, must be fully legible:
(f)
the ticket must not be defectively printed or produced in error to an extent that it cannot be processed by the Commission or any other retailer:
(g)
the ticket must not be false, counterfeit, or cancelled:
(h)
the ticket must not appear on the Commission’s computer record of cancelled tickets:
(i)
all information appearing on the ticket must appear in the Commission’s official computer record of winning tickets, and a prize must not have already been paid in relation to another ticket with identical data:
(j)
the ticket must pass all additional confidential validation tests and security criteria established by the Commission:
(k)
the ticket must not have been issued in return for a machine-completed coupon.
(3)
For a ticket issued electronically,—
(a)
the ticket must include 1 or more selections that are winning selections:
(b)
the information recorded on the ticket must correspond with the Commission’s computer record of prize-winning tickets:
(c)
the ticket must not be false or counterfeit:
(d)
the ticket must not appear on the Commission’s computer record of cancelled tickets:
(e)
all information appearing on the ticket must appear on the Commission’s official computer record of winning tickets, and a prize must not have already been paid in relation to another ticket with identical data:
(f)
the ticket must pass all additional confidential validation tests and security criteria established by the Commission.
52 Certain syndicate tickets invalid
(1)
A ticket purchased by or on behalf of a commercial syndicate is void and ineligible for a prize.
(2)
Tickets purchased by or on behalf of a commercial syndicate may not be cancelled.
(3)
The Commission must not replace a ticket that is invalid under this rule.
(4)
A person does not obtain a financial gain by receiving any payment that represents the person’s proportional share (based on the amount the person paid towards the tickets purchased by or on behalf of the syndicate) of any prize.
53 Consequences of ticket being invalid
(1)
If a ticket fails to pass all the requirements set out in rule 51, the ticket is void and ineligible for any prize.
(2)
The Commission may, if it thinks fit, replace an invalid ticket with a ticket of equivalent sales price for any subsequent game.
Part 4 Claiming prize
54 Prizes won through tickets issued electronically
(1)
Despite anything in this Part, the following provisions apply to all prizes won through tickets issued electronically:
(a)
prizes cannot be claimed from a retailer:
(b)
monetary prizes will be credited to the purchaser of the ticket:
(c)
the purchaser must comply with the Commission’s terms and conditions for prizes:
(d)
non-monetary prizes will be delivered to the purchaser’s nominated address.
(2)
Rule 57 does not apply to prizes won through tickets issued electronically, but the rest of the rules in this Part apply to those prizes.
55 Time limits on claims
(1)
All prizes must be claimed within 12 months from the date on which the winning numbers are drawn.
(2)
Any prize not claimed within the 12-month period in the manner set out in these rules is forfeited, and the unclaimed prize money must be paid into the prize reserve fund.
56 Prizes of $1,000 or less
(1)
If the prize, or the aggregate of the prizes (whether prize money or bonus tickets, or a combination), that may be claimed for any one ticket is $1,000 or less, a claimant may either present the ticket to any retailer or submit a claim to the Commission for payment.
(2)
Retailers are authorised to pay any prize or prizes for up to 12 months from the date on which the winning numbers are drawn.
(3)
Retailers must pay the bearer of a ticket winning $1,000 or less presented within that 12-month period if all the ticket validation requirements and other requirements set out in these rules have been satisfied.
(4)
If the retailer is for any reason unable to validate the claimant’s ticket, or is not authorised to pay the prize, or the claimant decides to submit the claim direct to the Commission, the claimant must make the claim direct to the Commission in the manner and on the basis set out in rule 57.
57 Prizes of more than $1,000
(1)
If the prize, or the aggregate of the prizes (whether prize money or bonus tickets, or a combination), that may be claimed on any one ticket is more than $1,000, a claimant may make a claim for payment either directly to the Commission or through another retailer.
(2)
The payment of the prize or prizes may be made only by the Commission.
(3)
Claims for prizes submitted directly to the Commission may be—
(a)
sent by mail to the Commission; or
(b)
made in person at the office of the Commission.
(4)
The procedure for prize claims made through a retailer (other than the Commission) is as follows:
(a)
the claimant must complete the back of the ticket and present the ticket to the retailer, who must—
(i)
process the ticket through the terminal to register the claim; and
(ii)
provide the claimant with a lotto prize claim form:
(b)
the claimant must immediately complete the lotto prize claim form and return it to the retailer:
(c)
the retailer must endorse the lotto prize claim form and return to the claimant 1 copy of the endorsed form as a receipt for the surrender of the ticket:
(d)
the retailer must forward the lotto prize claim form with the accompanying ticket to the Commission for validation.
(5)
If a claim for a prize is submitted to the Commission without a duly completed lotto prize claim form, the Commission, before paying any prize, may require the person making the claim to complete a lotto prize claim form.
58 Payment of prizes of more than $1,000
(1)
The Commission must pay a claimant under rule 57 in the manner set out in subclause (2) if—
(a)
all the ticket validation requirements set out in these rules have been satisfied; and
(b)
the Commission has not made a determination under rule 48(2).
(2)
A cheque payable to the order of the claimant, or a direct credit to the claimant, for the amount of the prize due must be,—
(a)
in the case of a cheque, either posted to the claimant or, for a claim made in person, handed to the claimant; or
(b)
in the case of a direct credit, transferred to the bank account nominated by the claimant.
(3)
A cheque posted to the claimant’s address on the lotto prize claim form must be treated as having been received by the claimant on the third day after the cheque is posted.
(4)
The Commission must pay a claimant under rule 57 in a manner determined by the Commission if—
(a)
all the ticket validation requirements set out in these rules have been satisfied; and
(b)
the Commission has made a determination under rule 48(2).
(5)
If a ticket is not validated by the Commission, the claim must be refused and the claimant notified promptly of the refusal.
59 Bonus standard lotto selections
(1)
If the ticket validation requirements and the other requirements of these rules are satisfied in respect of a standard lotto division seven prize, that prize must not be paid and satisfied monetarily.
(2)
The prize must instead be paid and satisfied by the issue of 4 bonus standard lotto selections on a ticket for the next standard lotto game following the issue of the ticket.
(3)
The 4 bonus standard lotto selections must be issued to,—
(a)
in the case of a ticket issued in printed form, the bearer of a ticket with a winning division seven selection:
(b)
in the case of a ticket issued electronically, the purchaser of a ticket with a winning division seven selection.
(4)
Bonus standard lotto selections must be chosen on a random basis by the Commission’s computer system.
(5)
Despite subclause (1), when a person claims a division seven prize but there is no standard lotto game on sale,—
(a)
in the case of a ticket issued in printed form, the prize must be the monetary equivalent:
(b)
in the case of a ticket issued electronically, the prize to be credited to the purchaser must be the monetary equivalent.
(6)
Despite subclause (1), when a person presents a ticket containing 4 bonus standard lotto selections for validation but there is no standard lotto game on sale,—
(a)
in the case of a ticket issued in printed form, the ticket may be redeemed for the monetary equivalent:
(b)
in the case of a ticket issued electronically, the monetary equivalent will be credited to the purchaser.
(7)
The monetary equivalent for each of the following is $2.80:
(a)
a winning division seven standard lotto selection:
(b)
4 bonus standard lotto selections.
60 Bonus lotto strike selection
(1)
If the ticket validation requirements and the other requirements of these rules are satisfied in respect of a lotto strike division four prize, that prize must not be paid and satisfied monetarily.
(2)
The prize must instead be paid and satisfied by the issue of a bonus lotto strike selection on a ticket for the next lotto strike game following the issue of the ticket.
(3)
The bonus lotto strike selection must be issued to,—
(a)
in the case of a ticket issued in printed form, the bearer of a ticket with a winning division four selection:
(b)
in the case of a ticket issued electronically, the purchaser of a ticket with a winning division four selection.
(4)
A bonus lotto strike selection must be chosen on a random basis by the Commission’s computer system.
(5)
Despite subclause (1), when a person claims a division four prize but there is no lotto strike game on sale,—
(a)
in the case of a ticket issued in printed form, the prize must be the monetary equivalent:
(b)
in the case of a ticket issued electronically, the prize to be credited to the purchaser must be the monetary equivalent.
(6)
Despite subclause (1), when a person presents a ticket containing a bonus lotto strike selection for validation but there is no lotto strike game on sale,—
(a)
in the case of a ticket issued in printed form, the ticket may be redeemed for the monetary equivalent:
(b)
in the case of a ticket issued electronically, the monetary equivalent will be credited to the purchaser.
(7)
The monetary equivalent for each of the following is $1.00:
(a)
a winning division four lotto strike selection:
(b)
a bonus lotto strike selection.
Part 5 Withdrawal of lotto powerball or lotto strike
61 Commission may cease to offer lotto powerball or lotto strike
The Commission may, if it sees fit, at any time decide to cease to offer (withdraw) lotto powerball or lotto strike, or both.
62 Public announcement of withdrawal
If the Commission decides to withdraw lotto powerball or lotto strike (or both), it must, as soon as is reasonably practicable, announce to the public (in the manner the Commission sees fit) the date on which lotto powerball or lotto strike, or both (as the case may be), will be withdrawn.
63 Effect on advance selections and multi-draw selections
(1)
For a ticket issued to a player in printed form by a terminal, if a player has made an advance selection or a multi-draw selection for a game of lotto powerball or lotto strike and that form of lotto is withdrawn, the player may—
(a)
retain the player’s ticket in relation to the game or games that will be held before the withdrawal; or
(b)
obtain a refund for the selections the player made in relation to the game or games for which a draw will be held before the withdrawal, in which case the refund must be obtained before the draw to which it relates.
(2)
For a ticket issued to a player in printed form by a terminal, if, for any reason, a drawing for lotto powerball or lotto strike to which an advance selection or a multi-draw selection relates is not held, a player is entitled, despite rule 22(7),—
(a)
to return for cancellation any ticket on which any advance selections or multi-draw selections are recorded; and
(b)
on the cancellation of that ticket, to a refund equal to the cost of the player’s selections for each game for which a drawing was not held.
(3)
For a ticket issued electronically to a player, if, for any reason, a drawing for lotto powerball or lotto strike to which an advance selection or a multi-draw selection relates is withdrawn or not held, the player is entitled to a refund equal to the cost of their selections for each game for which a drawing was not held.
64 Payment into prize reserve fund
Any money that is not won in the last game of lotto powerball or lotto strike before its withdrawal must be paid into the prize reserve fund.
Part 6 Miscellaneous provisions
65 Limitation on Commission’s liability
Neither the Commission nor any other retailer is, in any circumstances, liable for any loss (direct or indirect) suffered by a player, a bearer of a ticket, or any other person—
(a)
due to the failure of, or damage or destruction to, the Commission’s computer system or records; or
(b)
due to delays, losses, errors, or omissions in or made by the postal or other delivery service or by the banking system; or
(c)
due to any other action or event that prevents or hinders the issue of a valid ticket; or
(d)
otherwise arising from participation in any game.
66 Decisions of Commission binding
All decisions of the Commission on questions of fact concerning lotto (including decisions as to the validity of tickets, the identity of the bearer of any ticket, the determination of prize winners, and the amount and division of prize money) are final and binding on all players and any other person or persons concerned for any reason with those matters.
67 Revocation
The Lotto Rules 2000 (SR 2001/1) are revoked.
Schedule 1 Transitional, savings, and related provisions
Part 1 Provision relating to these rules as made
1 Cancellation of tickets issued electronically before 29 September 2025
(1)
This clause applies to a ticket issued electronically before 29 September 2025.
(2)
The ticket may be cancelled under rule 18 as if it had been issued electronically on or after 29 September 2025.
Dated at Auckland this 20th day of August 2025.
The Common Seal of the New Zealand Lotteries Commission was affixed in the presence of:
[Seal]
Kim Gordon,
Deputy Chairperson.
Jason Delamore,
Chief Executive.
Dated at Wellington this 15th day of August 2025.
Hon Brooke van Velden,
Minister of Internal Affairs.
Explanatory note
This note is not part of the rules but is intended to indicate their general effect.
These rules, which come into force on 29 September 2025, revoke and replace the Lotto Rules 2000.
The rules provide for the conduct and operation of a New Zealand lottery known as lotto by the New Zealand Lotteries Commission, in accordance with subpart 2 of Part 3 of the Gambling Act 2003. The rules largely reflect the Lotto Rules 2000 as they were immediately before the commencement of these rules, with some amendments to—
set out the circumstances in which a ticket issued electronically may be cancelled; and
clarify which rules relating to entry into a game, cancellation of tickets, player responsibility, selections, and players’ agents apply to tickets issued in printed form by a terminal and which apply to tickets issued electronically; and
remove a provision that relates to cancellation of tickets that record lotto strike selections, because those tickets will no longer be separately issued; and
insert a transitional provision, which provides that tickets issued electronically before 29 September 2025 may be cancelled under rule 18 as if they had been issued electronically on or after that date; and
modernise the language used in the rules.
Date of notification in Gazette: 26 August 2025.
These rules are administered by the New Zealand Lotteries Commission.
Versions
Lotto Rules 2025
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