Hawke's Bay flooring apprentice Jacob Paraha has taken home the top award at the national Flooring Apprentice Awards.
Mr Paraha, 22, who works at Hayes Carpet Laying in Havelock North, was named the Supreme Apprentice of the Year at the annual Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation Flooring Apprentice of the Year Awards. He also took home the title of the top second year flooring apprentice in New Zealand.
The awards' presentation event, held in Auckland on Thursday night, is the largest annual get together of the flooring industry in New Zealand.
Mr Paraha, who attended Karamu High School in Hastings, is trained through the organisation. The award winners were selected based on the achievements and skills they displayed during their courses.
Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation's block course provider FloorNZ Principal Tutor Jeff Henry said Mr Paraha was well prepared for his final block course.
"His finished work was of an excellent standard and he was never satisfied until he had achieved his best."
After completing his qualification, Mr Paraha's employer has seen his skill and confidence grow.
His impact on the business has been recognised by his employer giving him the opportunity to develop further in a leadership role.
"The awards recognise those who are making a valuable contribution to this industry; it gives them the chance to be celebrated by their peers," Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation chief executive Warwick Quinn said.
There is a vital need to address the drastic shortage of apprentices in the flooring industry, Mr Quinn says.
Mr Paraha has also been selected to attend the Got a Trade Week - Future Business Leaders Forum, which will be held in Auckland in August.