Big win stuns young carpenter

A Palmerston North apprentice’s skill and enthusiasm has impressed judges at the regional final of a national carpentry competition.

Carpentry apprentice Atigiapa Meyrick, Tingi to his mates, has taken out the Central North Island Registered Master Builders Carters 2017 Apprentice of the Year.

Meyrick, 23, was quietly confident in his skills but knew he faced stiff competition from the other seven finalists, so he was still surprised when he came out on top.

‘‘I’m a bit dumbfounded really, and a bit overwhelmed. I’ve just been smiling so much I’m getting a sore mouth, like I’ve been eating too many lollies.’’

The competition was judged based on written reports from each apprentice, about a project they were working on, a 45-minute interview with the judges, and a site-visit to show the contribution they made to their project.

Meyrick’s enthusiasm and preparation impressed the judges.

The judges said his report and interview were outstanding, and his attention to detail during the site visit was far beyond what they expected from someone Meyrick’s age.

‘‘Atigiapa’s attitude to the competition was refreshing. His employers are very lucky to have such an outstanding young apprentice and an extremely likeable young man.’’

His boss, Isles Construction director Cameron Isles, was ‘‘super proud’’, having watched Meyrick grow from a gangly work experience kid to one of his best builders.

The project Meyrick submitted to the judges was the new twostorey science block at Cornerstone Christian School in Kelvin Grove.

Meyrick was rewarded for his win with a range of new tools, $2000 to spend at building supply store Carters, and a spot on an Outward Bound course.

He will compete against the other nine regional winners at the national competition in Auckland in November.