More than $170 million was distributed to thousands of individuals, community groups and statutory bodies from the sale of lotto tickets in the past year.
The Lottery Grants Board distributed $147.5m to the 4643 people and groups in 2007/08, including Creative New Zealand, the New Zealand Film Commission and Sport and Recreation New Zealand.
A further $24.1m was given to those statutory bodies and distribution committees experiencing particularly high demand.
Internal Affairs Minister Nathan Guy said the list of organisations that benefited was extensive.
The Cancer Society, St John and Surf Life Saving Clubs, marae, churches, Coastguard, the YMCA and Women's Refuge were among the grant recipients.
"It is simply amazing to see how many activities are funded through the Lottery Grants Board."
