Ara learner claims top spot at apprentice challenge regional heat

_{Apprentices taking part in the challenge had to complete the same set project against the clock.} 

Ashburton-based Jayden Marshall has won the Mid-South Canterbury regional heat of the 2026 New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) Apprentice Challenge - a proud result for Ara Institute of Canterbury Trades.

Jayden completed his Pre Trade Certificate at Ara's Woolston campus in 2021 before moving on to his apprenticeship with J Rive Construction. He’s now on the cusp of finishing his four-year apprenticeship.

“I was keen on learning to be a builder right from school and came up from Ashburton to get my pre-trade done. From there, I’ve been at J Rive and should get everything ticked off this year. My assessor Ron comes on site every few weeks to check in and keep me on track with the paperwork.”

The 16th annual NZCB challenge, held on 18 April, saw apprentices compete in an eight-hour build of a pātaka (community sharing cupboard) - with judges assessing workmanship, joint accuracy, material efficiency, safe working practices and plan adherence.

Competing in a public setting, under time pressure and in front of employers, family and colleagues, Jayden took first place and a $1,000 prize package courtesy of Mitre 10 Trade and Makita.

"I studied the plans in the lead-up to the competition and built it in my head. I felt like the man when I won! I had my boss there, my foreman, and I had my family there supporting me, too. I'm just chuffed to be heading up to Auckland to represent my region."

Mandy Gould, Portfolio Manager – Trades and Construction at Ara said the result reflects what the team works hard to build in every learner.

"We're delighted for Jayden and his assessor Ron Bedyn. He started his journey here at our Woolston campus and watching him go on to win a regional heat is a proud moment for everyone.

“This is exactly what trade education is about - giving learners the foundation to thrive and then seeing them go out and prove it. We'll be cheering him on at the national final in June."

NZCB Chief Executive Malcolm Fleming said events like the Challenge highlight the strength of the pipeline coming through the trades.

"We've got apprentices here who show real potential to lead the industry as trade-qualified, certified builders. Against the backdrop of a difficult few years in the sector, this nationwide event is a reminder that the industry has a bright future and that we must keep investing in our apprentices."

Jayden will represent Mid-South Canterbury at the NZCB National Final at the NZCB annual conference in Auckland on 5–6 June, where finalists compete in a final project and present to hundreds of industry leaders.

The overall winner takes home a $10,000 prize package and the title of New Zealand's best apprentice.