Source: Master Plumbers Gasfitters and Drainlayers
Just five years after starting out as a one-man band based in a home garage, Optiplumb Ltd has been named the 2026 New Zealand Master Plumber of the Year.
Presented at the 2026 New Zealand Plumbing Awards on 26 June, the award recognises outstanding achievement in workmanship, business performance, customer service, and leadership across New Zealand’s plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying sector.
Founded by Duncan Leask in 2021, Optiplumb Ltd has grown to a team of 16 staff, supported by a dedicated Operations Manager, Estimator, Project Manager and Office Manager as the business continues to expand across the Waikato.
“Anyone who meets Duncan quickly realises how proud, passionate, and dedicated he is to giving his all to the plumbing industry,” says Jacob Smith, Executive of the Waikato Master Plumbers branch.
“With a strong focus on team culture, Duncan ensures his staff are supported, motivated, and happy in the workplace.”
This is a business built on investing in people. Over the course of his career, Duncan has trained more than 20 apprentices and established a structured programme of mentoring, technical training and coaching to help every member of the team develop their skills.
A certified plumber, gasfitter and drainlayer, Duncan began his apprenticeship 20 years ago and is always looking for ways to upskill and provide better service to his clients.
One example of this is Optiplumb’s Optimum Service Guarantee, which is underpinned by four core values: Knowledge, Integrity, Teamwork and Excellence.
Behind the scenes, the company has invested heavily in technology and digital systems, while remaining involved in the Waikato community through sponsorships and support for local organisations.
About Master Plumbers:
Master Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers NZ Inc (Master Plumbers) isthe national membership organisation for plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying businesses, with 19 regional branches across Aotearoa New Zealand. Member businesses go through a Quality Assurance programme to join. Members are provided with a wide range of resources and training opportunities to support them in staying up to date with the latest technologies, products, and compliance requirements. Master Plumbers advocates on behalf of members and the wider plumbing industry.
About the New Zealand Plumbing Awards:
The New Zealand Plumbing Awards acknowledge positive achievements and success stories in the plumbing, gasfitting, and drainlaying industry. They are presented at an awards dinner on the final night of the annual New Zealand Plumbing Conference.Organised by Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers NZ, the national conference has been held for over 100 years and is the leading event for the industry, bringing together attendees from all over the country.