Van Iperen nails second place

RUNNER-UP: Doubtless Bay carpentry apprentice Kyran Van Iperen, judged runner up in the Registered Master Builders Carters 2014 Apprentice of the Year.

The Far North has done well in national apprentice competitions over the years, and last week Coastal Homes (Doubtless Bay) added to the record when Kyran Van Iperen was named runner-up to the Registered Master Builders Carters 2014 Apprentice of the Year.

The title went to Christchurch man Tom Southen, following a demanding practical test in Auckland that saw each apprentice building a children's playhouse for charity. Ryan Smith-Pilling (Palmerston North) was third.

Nine finalists from around the country were put through their paces over two days, each undergoing a 45-minute interview with the judging panel, followed by the practical judging component in front of family, colleagues, friends, and the public.

Registered Master Builders chief executive Brendon Ward said he was thrilled to see more than 130 young people stepping up to take part in the competition this year.

They had all done themselves proud, he said, especially the national finalists, proving that industry had an "impressive bunch" of future leaders.

"Congratulations, especially to our winner and our place-getters, who have really stood out as rising stars. As our newest Registered Master Builders members, we look forward to seeing what they have to offer our bustling industry," he said.

Carters Auckland area manager Mike Guy also congratulated the nine apprentices who have shown outstanding talent throughout their regional competitions, enabling them to progress through to the national finals.

"The employers must also be applauded for the role they play in the training and development of their apprentices," he said.

"Carters is focused on supporting apprentices, and we hope our involvement in the competition gives the participants in Apprentice of the Year a memorable experience. They are the future of the New Zealand construction industry, and we are proud to be assisting them in the best possible start to their careers."