Confidence, organisation and high quality work have earned a Wānaka builder the title of Southern 2021 Registered Master Builders CARTERS Apprentice of the Year.

Samuel Morris, 29, was named the region's top building apprentice at an online awards announcement on Friday (September 24).

“Watching on Friday night was really exciting, and I’m pretty ecstatic and proud,” Samuel said.

A former farmer, Samuel began his apprenticeship with MacFarlane Building four years ago. He became a fully qualified builder just days before being announced the Southern apprentice of the year.

As part of his win Samuel received a $2,000 grant to further his career, a place on an Outward Bound course, products and tools from industry suppliers, and the right to represent the Southern region at the national apprentice of the year in Auckland.

“I’m kind of nervous but looking forward to testing my skills and knowledge against the best in the country,” Samuel said.

Another Wānaka local, 21-year-old Turnkey Homes apprentice Cory O’Regan, took second place. 

Cory O'Regan reads his plan during the practical part of the competition

“This is so deserved. Cory’s work ethic and respect for the trade makes it an honour to have him on our team,” Turnkey Homes said in a statement.

The Registered Master Builders Apprentice of the Year awards recognises excellence among carpentry apprentices and raises awareness of career opportunities in the building and construction industry.

To enter the awards, apprentices made a written submission on a building project before taking part in a two-hour challenge to build a shoe rack.

The top 10 then progressed to an interview with a judging panel and an on-site visit to discuss their building project.

Now that the regional winners have been announced, Samuel will join them on November 3 and 4 in Auckland for the right to compete for the title of National Registered Master Builders Apprentice of the Year.

PHOTO: Wānaka App