The NZCB Apprentice Challenge, presented in partnership with BCITO, celebrates up and coming leaders in
the construction sector, puts their carpentry skills to the test and provides an opportunity to connect with local communities.
NZCB celebrates and showcases this event, identifying emerging building talent and the future leaders of our industry and New Zealand Certified Builders.
Aside from amazing prizes and the coveted Ken Read Memorial Trophy, 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.
Entrants will compete at regional heats around the country on Saturday 12 April in an 8-hour practical build, creating a project to donate to their local community. Up to 22 finalists going through to the national final at the NZCB Conference in Hamilton in June to complete for the winning title and $10,000 worth of prizes.
The NZCB Apprentice Challenge has always been a platform for showcasing the skills and talents of the building industry’s future professionals.
This year we have introduced a new and exciting element that enhances the competition and strengthens ties across the industry and within local communities.
Check out the 2025 Entry Guide here.
We have invited design students from ADNZ to complete concept designs for the Apprentice Challenge.
This competition runs separately from the Apprentice Challenge, but it plays a critical role in shaping the build project. We provided a design brief to ADNZ student members, and entries will go through a selection process to determine a winning design.
The ADNZ Design Competition winner will have their design brought to life by the apprentices at the regional practical challenge and will be celebrated at the Apprentice Challenge national final during the prizegiving.
Aside from amazing prizes, 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.
