Apprentice builders to be put to the test

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

Building apprentices from across the district  will battle it out at one of the multiple regional events that make up the New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) Apprentice Challenge.

The apprentices will be tasked with completing a project over eight hours which will put all their skills to the test.

The design plans for the project will be revealed to apprentices one week ahead of the competition.

The challenge requires proficiency in a raft of carpentry skills, with a focus on attention to detail and time management.

A judging panel of building practitioners and industry educators will assess each apprentice’s technical skills and technique, the quality of their workmanship, precision of measuring and cutting, assembly, and ability to work to a detailed plan — all while working against the clock.

Each project must meet minimum safety standards and competitors will be provided with durable, trade-quality timber and materials from ITM to complete the project.

The Gisborne event is at the Versatile Buildings at 390 Gladstone Road on Saturday April 6.

The public are welcome to attend.

The challenge starts at 8am and the best time to attend is from 3pm on.

The winner will be announced at around 5pm.

The Gisborne event will be one of 20 regional challenges held around the country on the day.

Proceeds from entry fees and the sale of the projects will be donated to NZCB’s Apprentice Trust, which is designed to provide apprentices with access to scholarships and grants.

The winner of each regional event will go on to the national final held at the NZCB Annual Conference and Expo in Wellington on June 21-22.