A Kiwi woman who moved to Perth last year says she plans on making the city her forever home after winning a life-changing $1.54 million Lotto prize.

The 50-year-old woman said she had her friend to thank for being late, which led to her buying the life-changing Slikpik 12 ticket.

“He was running late so I decided to pop across to Highgate Lotto News and Gifts and buy a Saturday Lotto ticket to kill some time,” the woman began.

“Our next dinner is definitely on me!”

The expat says she’s fallen in love with Perth since moving here and intends on using her windfall to put down roots in WA.

“I came to Perth because I wanted a fresh start,” she continued.

“Ever since I came here, everything has fallen into place, from getting a good job, to finding somewhere to live, to the friends I’ve made.

“How could I not settle here when everything has gone so well from day one?”

While she won’t be looking to retire anytime soon, she’s keen on splashing out for some much needed holidays.

“I will keep working, but this means that I will be able to travel more often. I have always dreamed of going on a Mediterranean cruise, and I’ll be able to go back to New Zealand for family events now,” she said.

Lotterywest spokesperson Jennie Fitzhardinge said it was often the small moments leading up to winning a Lotto jackpot that became memorable parts of winners’ stories.

“In the Lotterywest Winners Room, we often hear stories about a last-minute decision to buy a ticket being part of a winning moment,” Ms Fitzhardinge said.

“This week Powerball has reached an eye-watering $60 million, and we encourage players who are interested in participating to consider joining a syndicate at their local retailer.”

Tickets for Powerball’s $60 million draw tonight can be purchased in-store, online or through the Lotterywest App.