Otago ended up victors 21-15 at QBE Stadium despite North Harbour dominating both possession and territory and having plenty of chances to score.
Otago were leading 12-7 at half-time after tries from James Lentjes and an intercept from Sio Tomkinson just on half-time.
North Harbour dominated possession but were unable to convert enough of their chances and after a second half try from Aleki Morris Otago managed to hold on for a win.