West Auckland man finds $20.1 million Lotto ticket used as bookmark

A man from West Auckland discovered a $20.1 million Lotto ticket that he had been using as a bookmark for nearly two months. The winning ticket was purchased at the Blockhouse Bay Postshop & Stationers in July.

The winner, who requested anonymity, found the ticket after resuming a book he had paused reading. Upon scanning the ticket at a self-check kiosk, he initially believed he had won only a few thousand dollars. The true value was confirmed by a Lotto operator, who noted the prize included $20 million from the Powerball First Division and $111,111 from the Lotto First Division.

The prize was part of a $40 million jackpot that was split between the man and a young Auckland couple. The winner stated he intends to take things slowly and is considering an overseas trip.