Whangārei boatie Geoff is still pinching himself after being named the latest winner of Coastguard’s Summer Lottery, taking home a prize package valued at $225,000.
At an unveiling event at South Auckland Motors in Manukau, Geoff was presented with the keys to his prize: a Ford Ranger Hybrid, a Haines Hunter SF545 Special Edition, and a full boating safety equipment package.
“It’s pretty surreal,” Geoff says. “My initial reaction was that it was a prank call. Then I thought, well, I do actually have tickets - and who would really go out of their way to do something like that? It slowly started to sink in.”
A keen boatie since around 2005, Geoff has been a Coastguard member for many years and a regular supporter of the Summer Lottery.
“I’ve been boating for a long time, and I’ve bought lottery tickets for years,” he says.
“It’s a great cause. It’s one of the only ways Coastguard gets revenue to keep operating and stay on the water. When you need them, you really need them.”
For Geoff, supporting Coastguard goes hand‑in‑hand with being part of the boating community.
“It’s pretty affordable to be a member,” he says. “Knowing you can call for free assistance or a tow to get home safely gives real peace of mind.”
Now, he’s looking forward to getting out on the water with his brand‑new boat - even if it almost seems too good to use.
“Getting a new boat that’s trouble‑free and clear of all those little maintenance issues for some time is perfect,” Geoff laughs. “We can’t wait to get out there - although right now it all looks too clean to put in the ocean.”
Geoff is quick to acknowledge his wife, who he says played a big part in their win.
“She’s a big believer in karma,” he says. “We’d done a really good deed just before we got the call from Coastguard, so we definitely believe that you get what you put into life.”
Want to win big while supporting a lifesaving cause? Our Captain’s Club Lottery is open until 3 April, with your choice of an incredible Sealegs International 6.1 Sports RIB, a Range Rover Sport D350 Dynamic HSE, world travel, or a cash prize all up for grabs. Get your tickets here - Coastguard Captain's Club Lottery 125
