Source: Eastern Institute of Technology
56 seconds ago
EIT carpentry apprentice Hohepa Goulton (Ngāti Kahungunu) will represent Hawke’s Bay at the New Zealand Certified Builders Apprentice Challenge National Final, after winning the regional title earlier this year.
The 19-year-old from Flaxmere is in his second year of the New Zealand Certificate in Carpentry (Level 4) and studies at EIT while working full-time at Mark Roil Hawkes Bay Homes.
EIT carpentry apprentice Hohepa Goulton (Ngāti Kahungunu) will represent Hawke’s Bay at the NZCB Apprentice Challenge National Final in Hamilton this weekend, after winning the regional title in April.
He is one of 19 regional champions from across the country set to compete in the national final, to be held this weekend (June 6–7) in Hamilton.
“I’m a bit nervous, but I’m happy about it. It’s a cool opportunity and I’m proud to be going,” Hohepa says.
Over two days, finalists will take part in a four-part competition that assesses their practical skills, communication, and career readiness.
The practical skills test will see each apprentice given just one hour to build a traditional saw stool using hand and small power tools. Judging will focus on accuracy, speed, and technique, and will be carried out by industry professionals, including last year’s apprentice winner.
Finalists will also complete a panel interview, deliver a project presentation, and submit a CV and portfolio showcasing their work and community involvement. The overall National Champion will be announced at the NZCB Gala Dinner on Saturday evening and will take home the prestigious Ken Read Memorial Trophy along with $10,000 worth of prizes.
Hohepa earned his place at the national final after winning the Hawke’s Bay regional event in April. He had just eight hours to construct a planter box, which he has since donated to Te Kōhanga Reo o Keita Puriri rāua ko Hana Cotter.
It wasn’t his first time competing. Last year, Hohepa came fourth in the same regional competition, just four months into his apprenticeship.
Returning this year with a full year of experience and a new level of confidence, the result was different.
“It means a lot. Last year I didn’t really know how to use the tools properly. This year I felt way more confident and just gave it a go. I didn’t expect to come first.”
He says his success reflects the support he’s received through both his apprenticeship and EIT training.
“The tutors and qualified builders have been a big help. I asked a lot of questions before the competition, and they showed me little tricks to help with setup and technique. That made a big difference.”
A former Hastings Boys’ High School student, Hohepa discovered his love of carpentry in Year 10 wood tech. He continued with practical classes throughout school and was named top student in his Year 13 pre-trade course. With no immediate job lined up after graduation, he reached out to his teacher, who helped connect him with his current employer just two weeks after finishing school.
Now, with the national final ahead, Hohepa is focused on the bigger picture.
“I want to become a qualified builder and one day build my own dream home. I just love building. It’s hands-on, creative, and no two days are the same.”
