The 2010 Rally of Otago begins tonight with Mayor Peter Chin taking part in a welcoming function in the Otago Sports Hall of Fame.

Preparations were well underway for the ceremonial launch, which begins shortly after 6pm at the Dunedin Railway Station.

Cars began arriving throughout the afternoon, with some attracting close attention, while other people chose to relax in the afternoon sun.

The Rally begins in earnest tomorrow morning at 6:45 am, in front of the Southern Cross Hotel.