But the Problem Gambling Foundation says it is not socially responsible for the state-owned Lotteries Commission to target further growth in gambling during tough economic times.
In its annual report, the commission celebrated its "exceptional sales result" of $925.9 million during the 2010-11 year, achieved from "successful changes to Lotto and Instant Kiwi, as well as two large Powerball jackpots".
The figure represents $210 spent a year on lottery products by every man, woman and child living in New Zealand.
The sales result was $143.6 million up on the previous year - an 18.4% increase - "which did not have the benefit of extraordinary jackpot runs".
"This result was particularly gratifying as it was achieved against the background of a retail environment that continues to be very challenging," said chairwoman Judy Kirk and chief executive Todd McLeay.
"Our business is in good shape - our brands are strong, our sales are high, and our retailers and staff are committed.
"From this base, we now look to the future with a specific strategic objective - to encourage more people to play," they said in their annual report.
Problem Gambling Foundation chief executive Graeme Ramsey said tough economic times contributed to higher lottery sales.
"I do think there's the impact of the recession and people thinking a big win would absolutely cure all their ills." However the "really big issue" was the incidence of jackpots over a certain size.
"When a jackpot gets beyond about $12.5 million it drives sales dramatically ... I think we need to rethink those jackpots." While the incidence of problem gambling directly attributable to lotteries was low, they were increasingly seen as a secondary problem for those afflicted with other forms of gambling.
Mr Ramsey questioned the Lotteries Commission's ambition to get more people to play.
"I certainly think in very tough economic times, which are likely to continue, for the mission of lotteries to continue to grow gambling does not appear appropriate for a state-owned enterprise." Of the almost billion-dollar sales, $498.4 million was paid out in prizes, including 28 tickets of more than $1 million.
The record single prize, of $28 million to a pig hunter last October, also fell under the 2010-11 financial year.
The Lotteries Commission gave $183.3 million in profits for lotteries grants. The remainder - about $244 million - was taken up mostly by GST, the lottery duty and commissions for retailers.
Tomorrow night, more than $11 million could be won. Powerball is likely to jackpot at $5 million and a further $5 million of prizes could be shared in the special New Year's Eve triple-dip draw.
