The New Plymouth family that won the highest ever Lotto Powerball first prize of more than $19 million has now claimed its winnings.
The family said it wants to remain anonymous.
Every week a member of the family goes out and buys a lotto ticket, 3 News reported tonight.
"This week it was the son's turn and he put it in his top drawer in his bedroom and forgot about it until yesterday afternoon."
When he saw the results on teletext, he realised the winning ticket was bought in New Plymouth.
He thought "lucky guy" but when he checked the numbers he realised he was the lucky guy and burst out screaming and shaking.
His mother came into the room and thought he was hurt, 3 News reported.
One family member said he had always wanted to retire by the age of 35 and now he'd be able to do so.
Another was a big James Bond fan.
"So if you see an Aston Martin being driven around the town, you'd know why."
The mother said she would like to donate some money to charity. She was a big supporter of New Zealand hospitals.
In the meantime, the family was going to consult a financial advisor on how to invest the money.
