Apprentices from around the country compete in two divisions, battling it out for the titles of:

• New Zealand’s Top Electrical Apprentice – Industrial Section 
• New Zealand’s Top Electrical Apprentice – Commercial & Domestic Section 

Regional rounds will take place nationwide, with top performers progressing through to the national finals.

This is more than just a competition. Every competitor receives guidance on what to expect before the event, helping turn the Challenge into a valuable learning experience as well as a test of skill. Competitors may face tasks they already know well, alongside new scenarios that help grow confidence and capability.

There are also fantastic prizes, spot prizes, and the opportunity to gain recognition from employers, peers, and industry leaders.

Learn more about participant information

We are proud to introduce the Trans-Tasman Finals, delivered in association with Master Electricians Australia.

For the first time, top apprentices from Australia will travel to New Zealand to compete against our finalists in a trans-Tasman showdown. This exciting new addition raises the level of competition even further and creates an outstanding opportunity for apprentices to test themselves on an international stage.

The Trans-Tasman Finals celebrate excellence, strengthen industry connections across both countries, and showcase the future of the electrical trade.

Trans-Tasman Finals will take place at Eden Park on 11 and 12 November.

Top national competitors from each division will earn an all-expenses paid place at the finals, where they will compete for the title of Trade Master Apprentice Challenge Champion.

Finalists will take part in advanced modules, networking opportunities, and a memorable finals experience alongside industry sponsors, judges, and supporters.

To be eligible to enter, participants must:

• Be in a current training agreement
• Be actively employed in the electrical industry
• Not have completed their qualification before 1 October 2026

Any apprentice who qualifies before 1 October 2026 may still be able to compete in regional rounds but will not be eligible for the finals.

The Trade Master Apprentice Challenge is an opportunity to:

• Test your skills in a practical environment
• Learn from new challenges and scenarios
• Build confidence under pressure
• Gain recognition in the industry
• Represent your employer and region
• Open doors for future career opportunities

2025 – Andy Cowan

2024 – Zak Lyttle

2023 – Jack Norris

2022 – Thomas Mitchell

2021 – Matthew Ven der Wel

2019 – Zachary Fitzgerald-Geddes

2018 – Lindsay Froggatt

2017 – Harmony Court

2016 – Chabb Chia

2015 – Joseph Morris

2014 – Cameron Shailer

2013 – Vaughan Marshall

2012 – Alex Tyson

2011 – Logan Hanifin

2010 – Dwight Grayburn

2009 – Darryl Ferencz

2008 – Kyle Huggard

2007 – Blair Vercoe

2006 – Steve Letts

2005 – Daniel Woolaston

2004 – Simon Wellum

2003 – Todd Needham

2002 – Anthony Park

2025 – Hugo Carey

2024 – Kent Marshall

2023 – Chris Read

2022 – Mathew Masters

2021 – Sam Riordan

2019 – Tyrone Croukamp

2018 – Daniel Tait

2017 – Nick Johnson

2016 – Logan Sanders

2015 – Rahul Babu

2014 – Rob Stockley

2013 – Jonathan McFall

2012 – Rowan Cann

2011 – Paul Cook

2010 – Daniel Berry

2009 – Cole Jackson

2008 – Mark Adams

2007 – Alister Garrett-Tuck

2006 – Fletcher Campbell

2005 – Leon Moir

2004 – Leon Moir

2003 – Nathan Howe

2002 – Matthew Slater