The long-distance baton relay, which started in Northland last October, highlights issues surrounding climate change.
The baton is being transported by members of environmental groups throughout the country, using transport with minimal carbon emissions, including yacht, cycle and public transport.
Waikouaiti Coast Community Board member Geraldine Tait carried the baton from Palmerston to Dunedin by train yesterday afternoon.
A small group of supporters, a bagpiper, and Dunedin Mayor Peter Chin welcomed the relay. Mr Chin said the council supported the relay and any initiative which raised awareness of environmental issues related to carbon emissions.
While the council would continue to take policy direction from central government about environmental issues, councils might have to take a more active role in driving initiatives aimed at curbing climate change in future, he said.
Mr Chin and Dunedin woman Dale MacLeod (57) signed a register which recorded baton bearers throughout the country.
Mrs MacLeod will carry the baton to Clyde by bicycle, on the Otago Central Rail Trail, next week.
Otago event spokeswoman Dr Nancy Higgins, of Warrington, said the relay was co-ordinated by regional groups throughout the country dedicated to raising awareness of the effect of carbon emissions.
The groups ranged from political organisations such as the Green Party, to regional environmental activists, she said.
