Otago hooker Liam Coltman makes a break against Manawatu during their Mitre 10 Cup match in Palmerston North today. Photo: Getty Images
It ran in five tries as it beat Manawatu 36-25 in Palmerston North this afternoon.
It spent the first 25 minutes under pressure, but defended well to trail just 8-0.
From there it managed tries to Vilimoni Koroi and Liam Coltman, giving it a 14-8 lead at halftime.
That continued early in the second half, as Otago's backs proved lethal in space.
Freedom Vahaakolo scored in the corner, while a penalty and a pair of intercept tries to Koroi and Michael Collins took it to 36-8.
Manawatu hit back with three late tries, but it was unable to haul in the margin.