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The Cook Strait Apprentice of the Year Regional Winner is..🛠️

8 August 2023 

The top three Apprentices from the Cook Strait region have been announced for the 2023 Registered Master Builders CARTERS Apprentice of the Year.

The Apprentice of the Year competition recognises excellence among carpentry apprentices and raises awareness of career opportunities in the building and construction industry. The competition tests our future sector leaders' project management, business, presentation, and practical skills. 

For the regional competition, each apprentice had to initially submit a building project. They then took part in a two-hour practical challenge where they were tasked with building a step stool. The top 10 from each region then progressed to the interview stage with a judging panel and an onsite visit to discuss their project. 

Tim Parkinson from Ruby Bay has been named the Cook Strait 2023 Registered Master Builders CARTERS Apprentice of the Year. Tim was trained through BCITO | Te Pūkenga and is employed by RenovateMe Nelson.  

The judges were impressed with Tim’s submission. "It showcased his solid understanding of his project, with detailed explanations of tasks and materials used. He consistently referred to acceptable solutions and standards, displaying impressive knowledge.  His techniques and tool utilisation throughout the practical challenge were impressive, demonstrating versatility and confidence. His well-organised and comprehensive tool kit was also noteworthy. Tim possesses a keen eye for detail in complex projects and exhibits strong leadership qualities. It's impressive to see such advanced skills after only two years of his apprenticeship.  "

Second place was awarded to John Allan from Porirua, John is employed by De Bes Contracting and trained through BCITO | Te Pūkenga.

The judges said, "John truly excelled in all aspects of the competition, showcasing his versatility and skillset. His concise, clear, and confident thinking is very admirable. We were particularly impressed by his ability to remain unphased throughout the practical challenge.  John’s understanding of intricate details in complex projects was astounding. Not only did he possess great technical ability, but a positive attitude and an easy-going nature. A well-rounded and capable apprentice, John’s knowledge of the building process is impressive. A bright future awaits him." 

In third place was Aaron Lambert from Blenheim. Aaron is employed by George Guthrie Construction and is also trained through BCITO | Te Pūkenga.  

The judges said Aaron was able to demonstrate a solid understanding of his project. "A great all-rounder, Aaron took a methodical approach to the practical challenge while keeping a tidy work area. He had great attention to detail and excelled under pressure. His understanding of the building process, eye for detail, and leadership qualities are exceptional.  "

National Competition
The top apprentice from each region will then go on to compete in the National Competition in Auckland. This includes a 45-minute interview with the national judging panel and an additional six-hour practical skills test, followed by the National Awards Dinner where we will announce the winner. 

The National Practical will be co-located at CONZTRUCT Auckland North on Thursday 9th November 2023 at Eventfinda Stadium.

CONZTRUCT is New Zealand's largest travelling construction trade show and attracts thousands of builders, architects, designers, and other trade professionals at its 16 annual events nationwide. Each event covers the residential, commercial, and industrial sectors, and the exhibition includes showcasing a diverse range of products and services from the industry’s brand leaders.  
 
If you have any questions please email aoy@masterbuilder.org.nz