Apprentice Challenge 2025 announced

The date of the New Zealand Certified Builders Apprentice Challenge 2025 has been announced – with apprentices from around the country eligible to win $10,000 of prizes at the grand final! 

Regional heats held on 12 April will separate the best from the rest by tasking apprentices with building a project over six hours. Winners of the heats move to the national final that kicks off at the New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) Conference in Hamilton on 6-7 June. 

One week before the regional heats entrants will be presented with a design concept of what they are expected to build on the day. Following completion of the build, they must find a deserving recipient in their community to donate their finished project to and document the process. 

BCITO on board 

BCITO has been announced as the Challenge’s main sponsor – and Director Greg Durkin says the organisation is proud to support the next generation of Kiwi tradies. 

“The NZCB Apprentice Challenge highlights the exceptional skills and dedication of apprentices in the building industry. BCITO also acknowledges the professionalism and dedication of employers and senior trade staff who train these talented apprentices,” said Durkin.   

“The Apprentice Challenge is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the talent of the apprentices, celebrate their hard work, and inspire the next generation of tradespeople to pursue excellence in their craft.” 

Entry is open to all carpentry apprentices in New Zealand, regardless of age or stage of their apprenticeship. Entrants must be enrolled in a recognised apprentice programme and be up to date with any fees or training expenses. Finalists must still be an apprentice at the time of the national finals. 

Entrants don’t have to be employed by NZCB builders – but preference will be given to those who are.  

An important piece of the puzzle

Now in its 15th year, NZCB Chief Executive Malcolm Fleming said the Challenge is important to develop the next generation. 

“The competition is well recognised on the CVs of young builders. Many NZCB builders are alumni of the Apprentice Challenge themselves and now encourage their own apprentices to give it a go. We’re even seeing past winners come back as judges and technical advisers.  

“We’re thrilled to welcome BCITO as the main sponsor for the Apprentice Challenge. Over several decades, NZCB builders have established a deep trust with BCITO to help progress the careers of their apprentices. It’s the perfect fit with this event.”  

Entries for the NZCB Apprentice Challenge open on 1 February 2025 and close on 20 March 2025. Entry is open to all apprentices in New Zealand of any age and in any stage of their apprenticeship and is free for NZCB and BCITO-aligned apprentices. 

Main photo caption: 2024 Apprentice Challenge winner Daniel Smith from Structured Buildings, Onehunga Auckland