Thanks very much for big donation

Entertainers and dancers celebrating at the end of the 23 hour Big Night In telethon. Photo / Martin Sykes

Dancers and television personalities celebrated the end of TV3's 23-hour Big Night In.

The first telethon in 15 years raised $1,944,225 for the KidsCan charitable trust, which supports children living in poverty.

KidsCan executive Director Julie Helson said the trust was overwhelmed by the generosity people had shown.

The live entertainment extravaganza ran from 7pm on Saturday until 6 last night.

Brent Impey, chief executive of TV3's owner, Mediaworks, said it was humbling to see the generosity of New Zealanders, especially during a recession.