Callum Kent was among the contestants in the Gisborne regional heat of the 2024 NZCB Apprentice Challenge. He is one of six in the Gisborne regional heat of the 2026 challenge on April 18. Photo / Paul Rickard
Callum Kent was among the contestants in the Gisborne regional heat of the 2024 NZCB Apprentice Challenge. He is one of six in the Gisborne regional heat of the 2026 challenge on April 18. Photo / Paul Rickard
Several of Gisborne’s rising builders are gearing up for their regional heat of the 2026 NZ Certified Builders Apprentice Challenge on April 18.
Six young builders will go head-to-head and against the clock, constructing a pātaka (community sharing cupboard) at Mitre 10 in Derby St.
“Apprentices will be judgedon their craftsmanship, attention to detail and ability to perform under pressure,” NZ Certifined Builders Gisborne president Brendan Fry said.
The top three will advance to the national final.
Antonio Barbarich-Waikari claimed the title of Gisborne’s champion building apprentice for the second year running in 2024. Photo / Paul Rickard
The six Gisborne entrants are Larney Doyle, Inoke Baleitavea, Callum Kent, James Searle, Maruata White and Max Elsmore.
Gisborne is one of multiple regional heats to be held simultaneously across the country.
The heat starts at 8am on Saturday, April 18, and the top three will be announced at 5.15pm. First place earns a $1000 prize package, second gets a $500 package and third a $300 package.
“Each apprentice will donate their completed pātaka to a recipient in their community to be used for items such as toys, books and food supplies for those in need,” Fry said.
“Building for eight hours straight is tough. Doing it in public, under pressure, with employers, colleagues and family watching, that’s a true test of skill, focus and resilience.
Zeke Ingram had a go at the Apprentice Challenge in 2024. Photo / Paul Rickard
“The challenge is the ultimate test for apprentices – eight hours of craftsmanship under pressure to determine Gisborne’s top apprentice.
“We’ve seen an exceptional pool of talent this year, pointing to a very bright future for the industry.
“As New Zealand’s premier apprentice competition, this is where the country’s best stand up and prove themselves.”
Judges will assess each build against strict criteria, including structural integrity and overall finish, to determine who advances to the national final in June.
