Powerball is set to soar to $38 million tonight, offering one of the largest jackpots in recent history.

Earlier this month, Lotto NZ celebrated over three decades of thrilling draws, with the first Lotto draw held on 1 August 1987.

That inaugural event produced a prize pool of $1,028,024, with a first division prize of $359,808.

Four winners, including a Devonport pensioner and an Invercargill City Council employee, shared $89,952 each.

Despite the significant sums awarded back then, they pale in comparison to today's jackpot.

The massive $38 million prize has rolled over from previous draws, capturing the excitement and imagination of Kiwis nationwide.

Since 1987, Lotto NZ has created 1,187 millionaires and distributed more than $15.4 billion in prizes.

Additionally, over $6 billion has been returned to local communities, supporting numerous community groups, charities, and initiatives.

"The support of lottery funding has helped foster strong and sustainable communities for over three decades and will continue to do so into the future," said Lotto NZ CEO Jason Delamore.

He extended gratitude to players for their continued support and participation.

Lotto NZ encourages players to buy their tickets early to avoid the rush on draw day, both in-store and online.

The draw will take place tonight at 8 pm.

Will someone hit the big one?

All eyes are on tonight's draw to see if another Kiwi will join the ranks of Lotto NZ millionaires.