21/04/2026
What a weekend on the tools 🔨
That time of year again where the best of the best apprentices go head-to-head in the NZCB Apprentice Challenge, proudly backed by BCITO & Mitre 10.
Eight hours. One build. No shortcuts.
The task, construct a Pataka (Sharing Cupboard) from a detailed set of plans, with a few curveballs thrown in for good measure. Real world problem solving at its finest. 🧠
Every apprentice put their skills to the test, working through the tricky components, thinking on their feet, and delivering some seriously impressive workmanship.
The best part … Every finished Pataka gets donated to a community, charity, or organisation that means something to them 🫶🏾
Safe to say, the judges have a seriously tough decision on their hands. Marking was tight and the standard was next level.
A massive congratulations to our regional winners
1st Place: Caidan Brien - Younger Builders
2nd Place: Marcus Shrubshall - Building & Beyond
3rd Place: Jaiden-Lee Radcliffe - Rhino Build
Caidan now advances to the national stage of the NZCB Apprentice Challenge, where he’ll face the ultimate test for the chance to take home the $10,000 top prize. Well done
Caidan, the Northland Crew will back you all the way mate.
Massive congrats to all our apprentices who got stuck in this year 🔨 Not an easy gig, but every one of you stepped up and delivered, serious effort all round.
Big thanks to New Zealand Certified Builders for putting on such a top-notch event for our apprentices 👏
Shoutout to our sponsors / Mitre 10 Mega Whangārei & for backing the next generation.
Special mention to Guyco Construction for keeping everyone fuelled, looking after the contestants, judges, and supporters on the day. Legends.
And to our judges, Greg from Natural Insulation, Troy from NorthTec Whangārei & Dean from BCITO, not an easy job with talent like that on display.
Lastly, huge thanks to the Whangārei community for showing up and getting behind the apprentices. Unreal support 👊
See you at Nationals in June! 🔨