Meet your 2026 Central & Upper South Island 
Apprentice of the Year champions!
 The 2026 Master Builders CARTERS Apprentice of the Year for the Central & Upper South Island region has 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 - Dokyun Kim

Employer - Laing Properties
Training provider - BCITO

Dokyun delivered an outstanding performance across every stage of the competition. His submission showed a strong understanding of a complex transportable home project, clearly explaining not only the work involved but why each decision mattered. His earlier experience in boat building and cabinetmaking was evident in his accuracy, practical thinking and high standard of finish.

Dokyun was exceptionally well prepared for the interview and impressed the judges with his confidence, enthusiasm, and genuine pride in the trade. At the site visit, he demonstrated detailed knowledge of how the home’s two mirrored sections would be transported and connected. He also showcased challenging work he had personally completed, including a frameless slider. His immaculate tools further reflected the pride he takes in his craft. Dokyun is an exceptional apprentice and a highly deserving regional winner. Congratulations, Dokyun.
 

Second Place - Caleb Scott

Employer - Big Bad Wolf Builders
Training provider - NMIT

Caleb’s submission reflected his enthusiasm for the trade and the pride he takes in his work. His Savill Bay project was explained in strong technical detail, showing a clear understanding of how the build progressed from set-out and excavation through to the flooring and framing. His example of health and safety leadership also demonstrated that he is willing to take responsibility on site.

During the site visit and interview, Caleb presented with confidence and answered the judges’ questions well. His industry knowledge made a particularly strong impression and showed how much potential he has within the trade. In the practical challenge, Caleb reviewed the plans carefully and used an effective sequence of work to complete the project to a high standard. Caleb has a very promising building career ahead of him. Bravo, Caleb.
 

Third Place - William Farnsworth

Employer - Taylor & Co Building
Training provider - BCITO

William’s well-written submission demonstrated a mature understanding of the industry, supported by experience across joinery, commercial construction and residential building. His Kāinga Ora project showed that he understands the importance of sequencing work and keeping a fast-moving site on track. The judges were especially impressed by how he had applied lessons from an earlier project to improve the construction of the intertenancy walls.

William was engaging throughout his interview and spoke with real pride about his work. During the site visit, he confidently explained the complexities of the two Kāinga Ora homes and showed a thorough understanding of the build from start to finish. His practical challenge was completed methodically and to an excellent standard. William’s capability and drive suggest he will go on to lead successful projects and teams. Well done, William.
 

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