The public is being warned against a scratch and win hoax which has scammed more than 150 victims out of almost $4 million.
Police said that despite publicity and warnings against the scam since 2013, they were concerned that people were continuing to send money through.
The scam was simple, victims received a travel brochure along with two scratch and win tickets.
One of the tickets showed the recipient had 'won' second prize, which was usually somewhere between US$160,000 and US$175,000.
The victims were then put in touch with the prize sponsor and, once verifying they are the 'winner' are asked to pay upfront fees such as, entertainment tax, Hong Kong government taxes, court costs, transaction insurances and fees to join travel and investment groups.
Police said they are told many of these fees are refundable, and often victims are losing $20,000 to $30,000 at a time.
Scammers continued to ask victims for money, until they ran out or refused to pay any more.
Police believed scammers were creating new mail-outs two or three times a month, which were sent all over the country.
The scammers constantly re-branded their 'product' by changing the travel companies names.
Police said some recent names included Asia Star Holidays, Moonspirit Paradise Tours, Panmarina Travel, Royal Hibiscus Tours and Blue Oasis Travel Agency.
These are backed up by seemingly plausible websites.
Many New Zealanders were falling for these types of scams, making it very profitable for the offenders, Detective Senior Sergeant Aaron Pascoe said.
"Victims are promised 'guaranteed' refunds will be paid in 45 days - but they never are.
"These people are in the business of taking money, not giving it back."
Mr Pascoe said despite being warned by police some victims have refused to accept advice and have continued sending money until their funds are exhausted.
"Let us be clear, there is no prize and any money sent to these offenders is gone forever," Mr Pascoe said.
"We have had people who, months after we have contacted them, have continued to send one last payment to release their 'winnings', which they never receive.
"We need people to wise up."
