Million dollar win for family

A Hamilton woman won the top prize of $1 million in the latest Bonus Bonds draw. Photo / File

A Hamilton woman is taking her family on their first proper holiday after winning the top prize of $1 million in the latest Bonus Bonds draw.

"When my kids were growing up we were known as the 'stay-at-home family'. Now we can finally have the holiday I always wanted."

She said sharing the news with her family was exciting and emotional. "After I found out I danced around, squealing at the top of my lungs and squeezing and hugging my husband. I rang my oldest daughter and we couldn't stop laughing and crying.

"Then my younger daughter arrived home and we hugged each other and jumped up and down in the sunshine. Even our little dog got in on the excitement!"

The winner said the prize will help take away the stress of daily life for her and her family.

"I will be able to work because I want to, not because I have to, and help my family if hard times come along.

"My mum is about to start radiation therapy so I was able to give her a stress-free Christmas. I'll also be able to help my daughter with a deposit for her first home, and help my grandchildren enjoy a good education and a comfortable and exciting childhood.

"I know it sounds crazy but I always believed I would win," she said. "It has changed my life. And because of that, it will change the lives of my children and grandchildren too."

Instead of earning interest or receiving investment gains, a $1 million grand prize is paid to one winning bond holder each month along with one prize of $100,000, one prize of $50,000 plus multiple prizes of $5,000, $500, $100, $50 and $20.

To date the youngest bond holder to win $1 million was just 3 years old and the oldest was 92.

Bonus Bonds are first eligible for the monthly prize draw after you have owned them for at least one calendar month.