Meet your 2026 Bay of Plenty & Hawke's Bay 
Apprentice of the Year champions!
 The 2026 Master Builders CARTERS Apprentice of the Year winners for the Bay of Plenty & Hawke's Bay region have been decided, shining a spotlight on the outstanding skill, professionalism, and leadership of our future industry leaders.

Now in its 23rd year, Apprentice of the Year continues to recognise the best emerging talent in carpentry – apprentices who are not just building homes, but building futures.
 

Winner - Logan Crawford

Employer - JBH Builders
Training provider - Toi Ohomai

Logan’s submission reflected a thoughtful approach to the trade and a strong understanding of the project he had been involved in. He clearly explained the sequencing of the work and demonstrated sound knowledge of materials and methods, including some that are less common in traditional timber-frame construction. His interview reinforced this, with Logan speaking clearly about his role and how the project came together.

His site visit was particularly impressive. Logan gave the judges a detailed walkthrough of what had happened on site, the work he had personally undertaken and what he had learned along the way. He also came prepared with answers to questions raised during the interview, showing initiative and a willingness to keep learning. In the practical challenge, Logan showed great time management and took real pride in his workspace, even arriving with a brand-new handmade saw stool. His ability and attitude mark him as a very deserving regional winner. Congratulations, Logan.
 

Second Place - Georgia Rendall

Employer - Oswald Construction
Training provider - BCITO

Georgia’s comprehensive submission demonstrated strong construction knowledge and a clear understanding of the reasoning behind the work. She showed real growth from her experience in last year’s competition, particularly in the way she explained preparation, problem-solving and the requirements of the Building Code. Her interview was equally strong, with Georgia communicating confidently about her involvement in the project and what she had learned from it.

The site visit was another highlight. Georgia spoke clearly about the challenges of the project and the areas she had been directly involved in, showing an excellent grasp of the build as a whole. In the practical challenge, she worked in an organised and methodical way, with her chisel work standing out to the judges. Georgia’s determination to keep improving and the progress she has made make her an exciting apprentice to watch. Great work, Georgia.
 

Third Place - Ross Pirie

Employer - Oceanside Builds
Training provider - BCITO

Ross’s submission demonstrated a strong understanding of the project scope and his own responsibilities on site. He clearly explained the planning involved, health and safety considerations, and some of the structural challenges faced during the build. His interview backed this up, with the judges noting a solid base of industry knowledge and a strong understanding of the work he had been involved in.

His site visit was particularly impressive. Ross spoke with real pride about both his own work and the contribution of his teammates, while showing a clear understanding of the challenges involved in the project. The judges were also impressed that he is already trusted to run jobs on site and contribute ideas independently. In the practical challenge, Ross managed his time well, worked methodically and maintained a tidy workstation through to completion. His growing leadership ability and commitment to quality give him a strong future in the industry. Well done, Ross.
 

The top apprentice from every region now steps onto the national stage, ready to prove their skills through a 45-minute interview and an intense six-hour hands-on challenge at the National Finals in Auckland, 9-10 October.
 

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PRINCIPAL PARTNER

EVENT PARTNERS