Leith Joinery worker James Buchanan was part of the team, dubbed the ''Tool Blacks'', chosen to represent New Zealand at the WorldSkills International Competition in Leipzig, Germany. The event was held over the space of four days last week, with Mr Buchanan presented with the award on Sunday after the judges found his work had reached the required standard.
Mr Buchanan told the Otago Daily Times via email that competition in the event was tough and he was ''stoked'' to pick up the award.
''It was the result that I had wanted. It made me very proud about myself and about being a New Zealander.''
He was one of about 20 joiners from 20 countries asked to build a window and a stepladder, with each project having to be completed in 11 hours.
''Right from the start the competition was intense and the speed was flat out. Changes to the projects put me off at first, but after the first day I was able to figure them out and managed to complete the project.''
Mr Buchanan's boss, Leith Joinery owner Peter Leith, who was a judge at the competition, said getting the award showed he was ''very good'', which boded well for the rest of his career.
''Most of the apprentices that compete in these competitions are foreman or managers now, mostly because they have got the right attitude,'' he said.
He said Mr Buchanan was now taking a ''well-deserved'' three-week holiday in Europe.
