Apprentice Zak Morrison has claimed the title of Western Bay of Plenty’s champion at the regional heats of the annual New Zealand Certified Builders Apprentice Challenge sponsored by ITM, on 6 April.

The apprentices were put through their paces, given just eight hours to build a picnic table that followed specific design plans and met minimum safety standards.

The picnic tables were assessed by a panel of expert judges who looked at technical aspects such as the quality of workmanship, measuring, cutting and assembly, as well as other essential skills while working against the clock, including their ability to follow a detailed plan and safe working technique, with Zak receiving the top score overall.

Zak Morrison, aged 19, is currently undertaking their building apprenticeship at Livingstone Builders.

As well as winning the title of regional champion, Zak also won a $500 ITM gift voucher to redeem on trade tools and earned a place in the national final representing Western Bay of Plenty.

There he will compete against 19 other regional winners from across New Zealand for the Ken Read Memorial Trophy and $50,000 worth of prizes.

The national final will be held at the NZCB National Conference and Expo in Wellington in June.

NZCB Industry Pathways and Apprenticeship Manager, Nick Matthews, says the competition on Saturday demonstrates the outstanding quality and diversity of apprentices currently training in the industry.

Zak Morrison (left) with NZCB regional president Mike Way (right). Photos supplied.

“It’s really encouraging for the building sector to see the talent and motivation displayed by the next generation of Kiwi builders at this year’s Apprentice Challenge.

“The regional competitions demonstrate how many skilled carpentry apprentices there are in New Zealand and we can’t wait to see them compete at this year’s national final.

“It’s a great way to celebrate those excelling in their work, whilst recognising the importance of supporting those starting out in the industry,” says Nick.

NZCB actively encourages member builders to take on apprentices as part of its commitment to fostering the next generation of skilled builders and has recently launched the NZCB Apprentice Network, designed to offer wraparound support for apprentices and their employers, including wider professional development and health and wellbeing support for apprentices.

“The future of our industry relies on a strong pipeline of trade-qualified, capable builders but unfortunately, we see lots of apprentices leaving before they get their qualifications. Initiatives like the Apprentice Network, and the Apprentice Challenge, are just some of the ways that we’re trying to ensure that apprentices get the additional support they need to finish their apprenticeships and go on to work in the industry,” says Nick.

The picnic tables built on Saturday will be sold to raise money for the NZCB Apprentice Trust, which is designed to support members of the Apprentice Network with grants and scholarships.