The final of the 2015 Apprentice of the Year was held at The Cloud in Auckland on October 9 and once again showcased the emerging talent in the industry.
The judges said this year’s competition came down to the practical section where one or two mistakes made the difference in who came out the eventual winner.
Congratulations go to this year’s winner, Shaun Campbell, from the Upper South Island Region.
The Apprentice of the Year is unique among our awards in the way it involves the community through the donation to charitable groups of the play castles built by the finalists as their final practical test.
Many of the charities came down to support “their” finalist on the day as they assembled the castle, and chanted and encouraged them over several hours.
It certainly grabbed media attention, as did the involvement of ex-All Black Chris Jack as an AOY Ambassador.
The apprentice finalists were all hosted as guests at the final of the House of the Year held on November 14.
Once again, the quality of entrants was superb and the RMBA was thrilled to see an increase in entry numbers for 2015.
This year we refreshed the regional magazines and web sites, and with more than 300,000 page views since the regionals started in July, it demonstrates that the House of the Year is an important part of the decision-making process when New Zealanders are looking to build.
One of the most important components of a successful competition is our dedicated team of judges. It is no easy task and, in some cases, can come down to the narrowest of margins.
They are a passionate group of professionals, and we are very fortunate that they choose to give back to the industry through the House of the Year.
We also wouldn’t have a competition if the home owners of these fantastic properties were not prepared to be involved.
In most cases they do so as a sign of support for their builder, to see them get the recognition they deserve. Their willingness to allow us into their homes is greatly appreciated.
Congratulations go to all category winners, and the Supreme Award winners.
