McSkimming scored 75 on the opening day and followed that performance up with a frugal bowling spell yesterday.
He conceded just 21 runs from 15 overs and picked up three wickets to help dismiss Canterbury for 188.
Left-arm spinner Nick Beard was also impressive, taking three for 31 from 20 overs, and Craig Smith took one for nine from eight overs as Canterbury struggled on a slow and low pitch.
Opener Michael Papps demonstrated what was possible with some determination. The pint-sized right-hander scored 104 from 235 delivers before Beard trapped him in front leg before wicket.
Aside from Papps, the rest of the Canterbury batting line-up offered little resistance. Brandon Hiini was the second-highest scorer, with 16.
Otago coach Mike Hesson was delighted with his bowling attack.
"They were very consistent throughout the day and got the rewards for some good work," he said.
Otago will make wholesale changes for the second two-day match today.
Neil Wagner, Sam Wells, Greg Todd, Michael Bracewell, Mark Joyce and Simon Badger will replace Craig Cumming, Derek de Boorder, Mat Harvie, McSkimming and Brendan Domigan.
