Its 2010-11 season started well two weeks ago at the same venue, with a first-innings win over Southland, but a declaration mid-afternoon on Sunday proved costly as South Canterbury chased down its target of 293 by the close of play.
The home side posted a modest 153 in its first innings, with Queenstown batsman Jarred Andrew top-scoring 39.
Glen Matthews was the destroyer for South Canterbury, capturing six for 47 from 11 overs.
South Canterbury then replied with 148, with Eric Standfield taking five wickets for Otago Country.
The home side then lost captain Brendan Domigan leg before to Matthews in its second innings before play finished on the first day.
Otago Country batted well on the second day to reach 288 for nine, with significant contributions coming from Peter Breen (59), Andrew (70) and Cam Rutherford (66).
Otago Country then declared with a lead of 293.
Enter South Canterbury opener Richie Preston, who went on to lead his team to victory with a magnificent 110.
Part-time bowler Fraser Wilson eventually picked up his wicket, caught by Domigan, but the damage had been done.
No 3 Jeremy Liddy added 59 in support and the visiting side reached the target just after 7pm.
Wilson took three wickets in the second innings.
Otago Country's next match is against reigning Hawke Cup champion North Otago in Oamaru on January 15-16.
