Matt Strawbridge, an apprentice at Support Construction, has been named the Waikato 2026 Master Builders CARTERS Apprentice of the Year. The competition, now in its 23rd year, is New Zealand’s leading event for recognizing emerging construction talent. Second place went to Jack Strawbridge of G.D Pringle Building, while Kaden Wenham of Whippet Builders placed third. All three winners were trained through the BCITO.
Technical skill and experience
The judging panel highlighted Strawbridge’s technical understanding and maturity. He has been in the trade for just two and a half years, yet his grasp of the Building Act and Building Code impressed the judges. Strawbridge’s submission detailed the materials used and the reasoning behind key construction decisions. During the practical challenge, he planned carefully, worked efficiently, and maintained a clean, safe workspace throughout.
Strawbridge was the only apprentice to cut all grooves before trimming the timber to length. Such an approach allowed for better time management and a higher quality finish. His performance across every stage of the competition marked him as a stand-out apprentice and a highly deserving regional winner.
Competition format and prizes
Across New Zealand, 95 apprentices from nine regions took part in the 2026 regional competition.
Each apprentice submitted a detailed overview of a building project before completing a two-hour practical challenge. The top 10 regional competitors were then interviewed by a judging panel and assessed during an on-site visit to their project.
Apprentices were tested on their technical understanding, communication, project involvement, and wider industry knowledge.
Related: Manawatu Apprentices Honoured
The leading apprentice from each region will now progress to the national competition. This event will take place on October 7-9, 2026 at The Cloud in Auckland. The format includes a 45-minute interview with a national judging panel and an intensive six-hour practical challenge.
Regional winners will have the opportunity to attend a 16-day Outward Bound course.
They will also receive a ticket to the National House of the Year gala event, including travel and accommodation. The national winner will receive a CARTERS Career Advancement Grant and the use of a brand-new ute for one year.
Ankit Sharma, chief executive of Master Builders, says the competition provides an important opportunity to recognize apprentices building strong foundations for their careers.
As our sector continues to evolve, skilled apprentices remain at the heart of delivering the high-quality homes and buildings New Zealand needs.
Apprentice of the Year gives emerging builders the chance to demonstrate not only their practical ability, but also the professionalism, knowledge and leadership they are developing throughout their training.
