An embarrassing fall on live television has seen the frightening Lotto glitter cannon suspended and a full investigation brought about.

Janice, who did not want her last name used, of Whangarei, fell backwards after the Winning Wheel stopped just past the $1 million spot.

It skipped over to land on $200,000. The subsequent celebratory glitter cannon added to her shock, causing her to trip backwards.

"It was very close to the $1 million mark so it was high drama," NZ Lotteries spokeswoman Karen Jones said.

"The glitter cannon startled her and she went backwards and tripped over the edge of the set. It took time for her to get up again.

"A first aid crew tended to her on site and she's laughing about it now.

"She said, 'well I definitely went out with a bang'."

NZ Lotteries communications advisor Victoria Barton-Chapple confirmed the cannon stand-down today.

She said the investigation was early stages in the process and did not know when or if the cannon would be back.

Janice was looking forward to her time in Wellington at the Lotto studios, as she had only passed through the capital city before.

Her wish list included a car, cruise and a home in a retirement village.