Carpentry apprentices across the region will be putting their skills to the test in a competition in Wānaka this weekend.
On Saturday, apprentices from across the country will compete simultaneously in the regional heats of the country’s largest building challenge.
The Central Otago heat of the New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) Apprentice Challenge starts 8am at Mitre 10 Wānaka, with contestants facing off for a place in the national finals.
NZCB Central Otago president Mark Duffy said the country’s top apprentices would be tested as they put their training into practice under time pressure.
‘‘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.
‘‘We’ve seen an exceptional pool of talent this year, pointing to a very bright future for the industry,” Mr Duffy said.
Competitors are set to compete to construct a pātaka (community sharing cupboard) and will be judged on craftsmanship, attention to detail, time-management and their ability to perform under pressure.
Event partner Mitre 10 head of trade Mark Moffitt said they were proud to support the challenge and to be part of an event that showcased the skills and dedication of the next generation of builders.
‘‘We are pleased to be supplying materials and hosting most of the regional heats across the country.
‘‘We are also working closely with power tools supply partner Makita to supply prizes for all the regional events and national finals,’’ he said.
Winners will be announced 5.15pm on Saturday.
The top performing apprentices from each region will advance to the national final in Auckland in June where they will compete for the title and a prize pack worth $10,000.
