Lotto winner from Twizel wins more than $17 million on Powerball

One lucky person will be heading in to 2020 $17 million richer after winning Lotto's Powerball last night.

The ticket was purchased in Twizel from The Market Store in the town's centre.

Store owner Monica Andrews told 1 NEWS she had a steady flow of customers all day checking lotto tickets.

"I'm pretty sure they'll stay anonymous. I don't know if they were a local or someone passing through," Ms Andrews said.

Twizel is largely a tourist pitstop - a place for those travelling the South Island to get a coffee, enjoy the views or perch up beside Lake Ruataniwha, where rowing championships are held every year.

"There's a good vibe here at the moment anyway 'cause it's the holiday season but this is just a bonus for people, really," she said.

It's the biggest lotto win in the South Island this year, and the 5th biggest win overall.

It comes after $22 million was won in Taranaki in January, two people in Auckland won $19 million in October, and $18 million was won in Whangaparaoa last month.

Lotto spokesperson Marie Winfield said 2019 has been their biggest year yet, with more than $570 million worth of prizes being won.

She urged Twizel's winner to breathe and, if possible, keep it to themselves for a little while.

One worker at The Market Store said she hopes it goes to someone local who has good support around them, as it is a lot of money and a lot of pressure.

Lotto will provide tips and practical advice on how to handle the funds once the winner comes forward.