Matt Hatchard named New Zealand’s top apprentice

Northland’s Matt Hatchard, 36, has claimed the title of the country’s top building apprentice in the New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) Apprentice Challenge, which this year attracted a record number of entries nationwide. Robert Piutau, 33, from Auckland won second place, and Thomas Ashley, 25, from Nelson came in third.

They were among 19 Finalists from across the country who were winners of the regional competitions held last month. The Final was held at the NZCB annual conference in Rotorua on 25-26 May, where Finalists were judged on examples of their work, dedication towards their apprenticeship, and a presentation to the over 700 NZCB member builders attending the conference.

NZCB Chief Executive Grant Florence says the record number of entries meant this year’s challenge was highly competitive, and all 19 Finalists demonstrated impressive skills.

“At a time when we need more skilled builders than ever to meet increasing demand, it’s great to see the enthusiasm and aptitude of all the apprentices taking part in this competition. Our annual NZCB Apprentice Challenge is a great opportunity for us to celebrate emerging talent in this crucial sector of the economy,” said Mr Florence.

As well as the recognition from taking out the national competition, Hatchard heads home with a prize pack valued at $20,000. The second and third place-getters each walk away with tools and building supplies valued at over $2,500, respectively.

The NZCB Apprentice Challenge is held in association with the Industry Training Association Building (ITAB), which offers the building industry’s most comprehensive apprentice training scheme combining extensive theoretical and practical training. Prizes for the national Final were generously provided by event sponsors: PlaceMakers, ITM, Paslode, Winstone Wallboards and others.

During the NZCB annual conference, apprentices also participated in the Great Apprentice Race – a fun challenge where apprentices showcased their skill and creativity by constructing a working catapult. Tools and supplies were generously provided by Mitre 10 Trade for the challenge, which competitors were able to keep. Michael Muaguitutia from Manawatū impressed judges and delegates alike, and the 21-year old returns home as Great Apprentice Race winner.

NZCB is the only one of New Zealand’s two building trade associations that requires builders to hold a formal trade qualification to be eligible for membership. In the context of its support for formal trade training, NZCB fosters and promotes apprenticeships in a number of ways, including its annual Apprentice Challenge and its support for ITAB.

ENDS

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