Source: Master Plumbers Gasfitters and Drainlayers
Rotorua plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying apprentice Sam Baldwin has been awarded a Plumbing World Scholarship at the 2026 New Zealand Plumbing Awards [26 June 2026].
Sam, 21, is among only three apprentices around New Zealand to receive one of the $1,000 scholarships, presented each year to promising apprentices completing their apprenticeships through the Master Plumbers-owned Masterlink group training scheme.
Known as the ‘master of hot water cylinders’ by his workmates at 100% Plumbing & Gas, Sam regularly gets positive feedback from customers, who praise his communication skills, professionalism, and calm, friendly nature.
Boss Julian Parker says Sam strengthens the reputation of his business every time he walks onto a site.
He has had to step up quicker than most at such a young age, filling the gap when a qualified tradesperson at the firm left for Australia in late 2024.
Sam took on the extra level of responsibility with confidence, and now works independently on maintenance jobs, renovations and new builds without the need for close supervision-a level of trust that speaks volumes about his capability.
He also understands the value of lifting others around him, Julian says. Now in the fourth year of his apprenticeship, Sam is mentoring other apprentices in the business, guiding them through tasks and setting an example with his own work ethic.
With his rare combination of technical ability, client care, motivation and maturity, Sam looks set to be a future industry leader, with a solid plumbing career ahead of him.
About Plumbing World Scholarships
Plumbing World Scholarships are awarded each year to promising Masterlink apprentices who have demonstrated diligence in their studies and a passion for the industry.
About Masterlink
Established by Master Plumbers in 2002, Masterlink specialises in mentored apprenticeships in plumbing, drainlaying and gasfitting across New Zealand. The Masterlink Team includes Regional Managers who support the apprentices and the businesses that host them during their training.
About Master Plumbers
Master Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers NZ Inc (Master Plumbers) is the 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, 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.