PlaceMakers showcases apprentice support and digital tools at NZCB Conference

More than 500 builders, apprentices and suppliers gathered in Hamilton on 6-7 June for the 2025 New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) Conference, with a packed programme of technical sessions, workshops and a national apprentice competition 

The annual event is a major fixture in the residential building sector calendar, bringing trade professionals together to share knowledge, strengthen industry connections and celebrate emerging talent. 

Held at Claudelands Event Centre, this year’s conference featured technical deep dives into off-site timber framing systems, rigid insulation, and updates on compliance frameworks such as CodeMark. Legal, HR and wellbeing support sessions were also on offer, reflecting the growing recognition of the importance of business sustainability in the construction sector. 

New Zealand’s best apprentice 

The highlight of the event was the NZCB Apprentice Challenge national final, where Tauranga’s Scott Davies was named Apprentice of the Year. Davies received the Ken Read Memorial Trophy and a $10,000 prize pack, edging out 18 other regional finalists after two days of intensive competition. The challenge included practical building tasks, interviews and portfolio reviews designed to test both trade skills and professional readiness. 

PlaceMakers operated a large and active stand throughout the event. The team used the opportunity to engage both newcomers and established professionals, with a strong focus on supporting apprentices. At the centre of their presence was PlaceMakers Apprentice Crew (PAC) – a free programme providing members with tools, discounts, giveaways and access to trade-specific resources. 

“Our stand was buzzing across both days,” said Chantelle Wilson, Sponsorship and Events Lead at PlaceMakers. “A major focus for us was the PlaceMakers Apprentice Crew, which is designed to help apprentices get ahead and feel supported as they build their careers.” 

Dozens of young attendees signed up for PAC on the spot, with many also taking part in a retro-themed PACMAN arcade game. The competition proved a crowd favourite, with three high scorers each taking home a PlaceMakers prize pack.  

“There’s nothing like a bit of light-hearted competition to help us connect with the next generation of builders,” Wilson said. 

Helping tradies spend more time on the tools 

For more experienced builders and business owners, PlaceMakers showcased an evolving suite of digital tools aimed at simplifying project workflows and improving site productivity. Among the features previewed was the improved Estimation tool, and the much-anticipated Estimations Online option, scheduled for release later this year. 

“We’re always looking for ways to give our tradies more time on the tools,” Wilson said. “This was a great setting to talk through how these tools can support day-to-day operations and business planning.” 

Wilson also highlighted the value of direct customer feedback gathered during the event.  

“It wasn’t just about what we shared – it was about what we learned. We took away some fantastic feedback – both praise and honest pain points – and we’re committed to taking that back to our teams to drive meaningful improvements.” 

The conference concluded with a networking happy hour and a formal gala dinner, capping off two days of professional development and industry connection.