NZCB Apprentice Challenge
The NZCB Apprentice Challenge is delivered in partnership with BCITO and Mitre 10 Trade.
Regional Heats: April 18th 2026
National Final: June 5-6th 2026
Now in its sixteenth year, the NZCB Apprentice Challenge is a celebration of emerging building talent and identifies the future leaders of our industry and New Zealand Certified Builders Association.
Taking part in the Apprentice Challenge can help you take your carpentry career to new heights. It’s an invaluable opportunity to meet other apprentices, industry leaders and build your network.
It is also a chance to have an impact on your local community. This is more than a build; it’s about giving back.
Entries for the 2026 competition will open on 27 January 2026.
About the Challenge
Entrants compete in an 8-hour practical build at regional heats around the country on and finalists go on to attend the annual NZCB Conference and Expo where they will compete for the winning title.
Each project is donated, and apprentices are encouraged to go out into their community to find a group to donate their build to or can donate to a group that they have a connection to.
The design concept for the 2026 Challenge is Pātaka Pukapuka — a community sharing cupboard designed for books, toys, food, or whatever else the local community requires.
If you are thinking about entering next the 2026 Apprentice Challenge now is a great time to start thinking about who you could donate your project to.
An updated guide for 2026 will be available soon.
Thank you to our sponsors
The NZCB Apprentice Challenge is brought to life thanks to the support of our sponsor family.
