2024 Registered Master Builders CARTERS Apprentice of the Year

Daniel Smith from Onehunga took out the Auckland 2024 Registered Master Builders CARTERS Apprentice of the Year title. Employed by Structured Builders, Daniel was trained through Manukau Institute of Technology. “His thoroughness, especially in discussing building standards, health and safety, and resource consents, set him apart,” said judges. 

Second place went to Barjonah Buxton, from Swanson, Auckland, employed by PDB Homes, and in third place was George Harris from Te Atatu South, Auckland, employed by Deftcon. Barjonah and George were both trained through BCITO. 

Glenfield’s Haylee Lemon (pictured) has been named the Northern 2024 Registered Master Builders CARTERS Apprentice of the Year. Haylee trained through BCITO and is employed by Kevin Goodall Builders. Judges remarked Haylee ‘performed exceptionally’. “Haylee has established herself as a standout apprentice in this competition and is one to watch.” 

Sam McAllister from Belmont (pictured, left), employed by Close And Co and trained through BCITO, won second place honours. Third was awarded to Luke Hempel from Waitoki (pictured, right), who is employed by Glover Homes and also trained through BCITO. 

Hunter Moon from Hamilton took out this year’s Waikato Region honours. Judges said, “Hunter is an exceptional apprentice with a deep understanding of the building industry and strong knowledge of the building code.” Hunter was trained through BCITO and is employed by Foster Construction.  

Second placed was Harry Phipps from Morrinsville. Harry is employed by Tim Whittle Homes and trained through BCITO. Keegan Comber from Okoroire was given third place. He is employed by Mark Wilcox Builders and trained through BCITO. 

Scott Emerson from Whanganui has been named the Central North Island 2024 winner, with judges heaping praise on the Shane Stone Builders’ employee. “Scott stood out as a top entrant, with one of the judges acknowledging him as the most impressive applicant they have seen during their time judging the Apprentice of the Year competition.” Scott was trained through BCITO. 

In second place was Matthew Hainsworth from Palmerston North. Also trained through BCITO, Matthew is employed by Build Manawatu Builders T/A Landmark Homes. Third place went to another recipient of BCITO training, Jordan Dredge from Palmerston North, who is employed by John Kitto Construction. 

Winner in this region this year is Scott Davies from Papamoa Beach. Scott was trained through BCITO and is employed by Gudsell Designer Homes. Judges commented, “Scott excelled in the competition with his natural leadership skills and friendly, engaging demeanour. His preparation was evident throughout, and he demonstrated a profound understanding of the building process.” 

Second was Ben McGee-Thomas from Arataki, Tauranga. Ben is employed by Genxhomes BOP and trained through BCITO. Third place went to Daniel Gibson from Judea, Tauranga who is also employed by Gudsell Designer Homes and trained through BCITO. 

“A well-prepared all-rounder, Ben demonstrated clear, confident thinking throughout the challenge. This is what judges had to say about Lower North Island Region winner, Ben Stokes from Wainuiomata. Ben was trained through BCITO and is employed by SGB Construction. 

In second place was Hendrik van Stryp from Miramar, Wellington. Hendrik is employed by TH Carpentry and trained through BCITO. Third place was awarded to Alfonso Escobar from Wellington, who is employed by Blokhaus and trained through BCITO. 

For the Upper South Island, Dylan Gelling from Ruby Bay was named regional winner. Dylan was trained through Builders Academy and is employed by Ruby Bay Construction. Judges were full of praise, saying, “Dylan stands out as a role model for aspiring young tradespeople, demonstrating a positive outlook and a commendable attitude towards learning.” 

Bailey Sherratt from Richmond was awarded second place. Bailey is employed by Jason Frater Builders and trained through Builders Academy. Third place went to Alfred Johnson from Motueka, who is employed by Roger Kenning Builders and trained through BCITO. 

“Throughout the competition, Adam displayed impressive knowledge and his performance in the practical test was remarkable, reflecting his advanced skills on the tools.” These were the judges’ remarks on this year’s Central South Island 2024 Registered Master Builders CARTERS Apprentice of the Year, Adam Harford. Adam, from Kaiapoi, trained through BCITO and works with Trent Builders. 

In second place was Jamie Pottinger from Burnside, Christchurch, who is employed by Southen Builders and trained through BCITO. Third place was awarded to Carl Smith from St Martins, Christchurch. He is employed by Cook Brothers Construction and trained through Builders Academy. 

Sam Hoskins from Lake Hawea put in an ‘outstanding’ performance, according to judges, to be named the Southern 2024 Registered Master Builders CARTERS Apprentice of the Year. Sam trained through BCITO and is employed by Dunlop Builders. Judges said, “His submission was well laid out, detailed, and reflected his strong technical knowledge. In the practical challenge, Sam showcased excellent planning skills, working smoothly and confidently.” 

Second place went to Cody Harvey from West Plains, Invercargill. Cody is employed by Cavalier Homes and trained through BCITO. Third place in this region went to to Oliver Hughes from Dunedin who is employed by Stewart Construction and trained through BCITO.