Top seeding, based on a estimated ranking, has gone to Jonas Mangai, a coach from Bangladesh.
Mangai has been working in North Otago with experienced coach Steve Dries, who rates the player highly.
However, without serious competitive match play, it could be difficult for Mangai to gain a first-up result.
Nelson student Alex Low, last season's Open runner up, is second seed.
Low has used a huge serve to fashion a strong record in interclub matches this season and has also been doing some good work with young players.
Jong Kyu Kim, a Korean exchange student, has made big progress during his time in Dunedin and has been seeded to meet Low in the semifinals.
The next seedings go to young locals Ryan Eggers, Carlos Reid and George Alexander. Jon Bakos, who debuted for Otago last season, is also seeded, with the list rounded out by regular visitor Shane Keenan, of Christchurch.
Miki Nobuzawa, of Queenstown, is a victim of his own recent success at national junior level, and is a late withdrawal after being selected for a national age group camp.
Women's top seed and clear favourite Georgia Hume is in for a busy weekend.
She was due to play her first round match last night, and today plays club tennis in Christchurch, before returning to the tournament tomorrow.
Jessie Stevenson and Hannah Speight (Queenstown), who had a close rivalry in their bid for placement within the national champion girls Southern team earlier this year, are likely to meet in the semifinal.
Stevenson is returning from injury, while Speight has had limited matches this season, but it could be a marathon if they do meet.
Heike Cebulla-Elder rounds out the seedings.
Semifinals will be played early tomorrow, followed by singles then doubles finals.
