Rotary Club of Dunedin East duck race organising committee member Pete Smith said the day and event had been ‘‘very successful'' overall.
But the wind and the low water conditions had been the most challenging since the distinctive fundraising event began five years ago.
Cure Kids and Dunedin Marine Search and Rescue would be the main initial recipients of the funds raised, but some of the funding would also be used to support other projects and charities throughout the year.
A total of 5000 small yellow ducks, linked to raffle ticket sales, were released.
Also participating were about 120 larger ducks which were sold to individual corporate sponsors and decorated by them.
About 20 other ducks were decorated by Dunedin school pupils.
