Kylie Wilson (11), of Alexandra, makes her way down the Manuherikia River in her biodegradable vessel, Platypus, during the 2009 Thyme Festival's Cardboard Boat Race last night. Photo by Peter McIntosh.
• Thyme Festival's Cardboard Boat Race
In keeping with the festival's theme of cherishing the environment, boats had to be made entirely of cardboard, paint, and tape.
The race started under the rail bridge on Little Valley Rd, and finished at the Shaky Bridge, 500m downstream.
After the 5.30pm race briefing, participants were sent down the course at intervals before gathering for a prizegiving about 6.45pm.
All wore life jackets despite the shallow water, and kayakers were on hand to help in case entrants struck difficulties.
Each boat's $20 entry fee went to Central Otago's whitewater club.
