“Waking up when the earthquake happened was like waking up into a nightmare, and we haven’t been getting a lot of sleep since due to all the aftershocks,” said the family spokesperson, who wishes to remain anonymous.
“But winning Lotto has been such an awesome experience, it’s going to give us a strong foundation for the future and for our kids’ futures,” the winner said.
The winning ticket, one of two sold in the garden city over the weekend, was sold at Woodham Foodmarket.
“I always felt that I was going to win – we used to sit and make lists of what we’d do if we won, it’s surreal to think that now we can make the list and actually do it,” laughed the winner.
“We’re finally going to be able to buy our first house, which is good considering that the rental we’re currently in has a big hole in the roof from where the chimney fell through it!
“We’re used to budgeting and making every dollar count – there was even a time when we had to visit foodbanks to feed our kids – so we’re definitely going to keep being careful so that we can make the most of this prize,” the winner said.
The second winning ticket sold in Christchurch was sold at Whitcoulls Bush Inn, while two other people won First Division on tickets sold at Drury Lane Superette in Drury, Westown Lotto in New Plymouth.
