Watch NZH Local Focus: Tradie shortage in the Bay

The Mount Maunganui Surf Club is in need of major repairs.

And this week, a group of tradesmen upgraded parts of the club's changing areas - as part of a nationwide road show to recruit building apprentices.

"They're doing 30 jobs in 30 days, and some work on the club was all part of the road trip," says local tradesman Sam Hartnett.

Mr Harnett is helping the recruitment drive.

A former Maori land rights lawyer, Mr Hartnett swapped professions after seeing a gap in the industry.

"I'm an active person, I wanted to be outside. I'd be inside on a day as beautiful as today and I'd look out the window and wish I was out there, so I made that wish become a reality."

In the Bay of Plenty alone, more than 4,000 people are predicted to be needed to fill construction jobs in the next few years.

"For caregivers and school leavers, to really think seriously about an option and a career in construction and the trades is possible and important. University isn't your only option," says BCITO Chief Executive Warwick Quinn.

The Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation-led roadtrip will continue for four weeks - visiting different regions to help out communities with building and infrastructure issues.

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