Kāpiti Coast, 20 May 2025 – Emma, a Pukerua Bay local, never imagined that her first-ever Coastguard Lottery ticket would bring her such incredible luck. 

Emma had never bought a Coastguard Lottery ticket before. But when the Captain’s Club Lottery 120 popped up on her social media, she thought, why not? That one small decision ended up changing her life.  

“I thought the prizes looked amazing, so I bought a ticket to dream a little. You know the saying, ‘you’ve got to be in to win”, she laughs. “And knowing the money was going to such a great cause made it an easy choice. I saw it more as a donation than anything.” 

This year’s Captain’s Club Lottery offered three incredible prize options: a new boat or Audi vehicle (each valued at $175,000), a luxury African safari for four, or a $165,000 cash alternative. 

 After grabbing an early ticket, she later received a reminder email that the tickets were nearly sold out. “There were just a few tickets left, so I grabbed a couple more. One of those ended up being the lucky winner.” 

When the phone call came through last month, she was in disbelief. “I honestly thought it was a mistake, or someone was joking. I couldn’t believe it. I was over the moon and even threw a little party to celebrate.” 

Emma chose the cash prize, which will help ease some financial pressure. “It’ll help me pay off some of my mortgage and bills and hopefully bring that dream of an earlier retirement a little closer.” 

While Emma hasn’t needed Coastguard’s help on the water, she’s always appreciated the lifesaving work volunteers do across Aotearoa. “It’s such an important service. For me, buying a ticket was really about supporting something bigger. I never expected to actually win. But now that I have, I’m just incredibly thankful.” 

Coastguard’s Acting Chief Executive, Philip Harkness said, “Emma’s story is a fantastic example of how supporting our Lottery not only gives you a chance to win great prizes but also directly contributes to funding the lifesaving work of our volunteers across Aotearoa. These funds are vital to keeping Kiwis safe on the water.” 

The $100,000 Cash Windfall Lottery is currently open, with tickets available online. For more information or to buy tickets, visit lottery.coastguard.nz/lottery/121

Names changed for privacy reasons.  

ENDS