It was the 27-year-old's fourth attempt at a regional title, but the first representing the club where his Young Farmers involvement began 12 years ago - Five Forks.
Mr Harvey won the competition in Oamaru on Saturday over six other candidates. They completed a series of tasks at the North Otago A&P Show during the day, then the final placings were decided at an evening function.
As well as the overall title and $12,000 of prizes, including a farm bike, Mr Harvey won food production and technology awards.
''It's been an amazing journey, but I've had a massive support team behind me,'' Mr Harvey told the Saturday night audience.
''The other contestants put up a tough challenge.''
Mr Harvey's success at regional level follows his return to his home patch - a sheep and beef farm at Airedale, where he hopes to become the sixth generation of his family to run the property.
Mr Harvey helped to establish a Young Farmers club at Waitaki Boys' High School when he was a pupil there. He then joined local clubs while studying for his Lincoln University honours degree and working further north after graduating, coming fourth in the Tasman regional final in 2016.
A move to Central Otago to be an Agriseeds agronomist led to contesting two consecutive Otago-Southland titles representing the Upper Manuherikia Young Farmers Club. He was second last year and won the agri-skills challenge.
Mr Harvey went back to Oamaru about a year ago to work for Agri Planz, an environmental planning management service for farmers. He also helps out at the family farm and has joined New Zealand Land Search and Rescue.
Mr Harvey said he does not practise for the agri-skills components of the Young Farmer of the Year competition - he gets enough training at home. However, he said he would have to work on his knowledge of the dairy sector before the national final in Hawke's Bay in July.
Methven arable farmer Campbell Sommerville (25) came second in the Aorangi contest and won the award for championing environmental best practice.
Carew contract milker Josh McAtamney, who at the age of 30 was in his final attempt at the title, finished third and earned the innovation award. McAtamney, who contract milks 950 cows at Carew and fattens bulls, placed third.
Methven stock manager Billy Dowle (26) won the prize for outstanding leadership.
Compere Te Radar said the contest had been updated since celebrating its 50th anniversary last year.
''We're now showcasing all aspects of what it means to be a modern food producer.''
