The school has set up one of its classrooms just for Mandarin classes in affiliation with the Confucius Institute of China.
Chinese Consul-general Jin Zhijian, Chinese education Consul, Confucius Institute director Adam Lam and Clutha District Mayor Bryan Cadogan were welcomed by the school's kapa haka group with a special powhiri and traditional performance.
Mr Zhijian was impressed by the dedication and passion the high school pupils showed for their culture.
``I have been to many occasions like this [and] I'm so impressed by the standard of those kids.''
He said the Maori welcome was wonderful and fabulous.
He officially opened the newly dubbed ``Confucius Classroom'' and gave the school several gifts to go to the classroom.
Learning Mandarin would open up opportunities for pupils in the future as New Zealand and China continued as strong trading partners, Mr Zhijian said.
The Confucius Institute aimed to promote the Chinese language and culture in foreign countries, such as New Zealand.
South Otago High School was the eighth school in the South Island to get a Confucius classroom.
Mr Zhijian said it was more than just about learning the language and culture, as there was also an opportunity to help encourage exchanges between South Otago High School and schools in China.
Principal Mike Wright thanked the visitors for their time and gifts.
Three Mandarin language assistants are based at South Otago High School and also teach at other schools in the district and to interested adults.
