Plumber Dan Duck Race on Whanganui River raises $12,000-plus for Jigsaw Whanganui

The Whanganui River turned yellow for a time on Saturday when about 2000 plastic ducks vied for first place in the Plumber Dan Duck Race to raise money for Jigsaw Whanganui.

Jigsaw Whanganui executive Tim Metcalfe said the event attracted a big crowd of spectators and raised more than $12,000 which the organisation would use for its intensive social work programme for families.

"We're very grateful to Plumber Dan who had his whole team on the river doing a fantastic job of running the race, Spooner Hood & Redpath who made a significant contribution to the prize, local businesses that donated spot prizes and to everyone who bought tickets and supported us," Metcalfe said.

The first numbered duck across the line near the Whanganui City Bridge belonged to Doug Davidson who won $1000.

A list of spot prizes is available on Jigsaw Whanganui's Facebook page.

All ducks were removed from the river after the event.

The ducks hit the water at the race start at Dublin St Bridge.

All ducks were removed from the river after the race #noduckleftbehind.

Crowds of people lined both sides of the river to watch the race.

A large inflatable duck on the riverbank was popular with the kids.

Trying to scoop a duck from a bath was a popular activity.

Yellow duck balloons and treats get some serious consideration.