Could you be ATNZ's next Apprentice or Rookie of the Year?
Open exclusively to current ATNZ apprentices, these awards recognise outstanding skill, progress and workplace contribution, with $2,500 worth of tools for each winner.
Entries close 5pm, Friday 6 November 2026. Enter through the competition tile in Canvas.
which competition
Choose Your Award
Rookie of The Year
For current ATNZ apprentices who are less than 18 months into their apprenticeship.
This award recognises apprentices making an exceptional start through their attitude, practical ability, reliability and willingness to learn.
Sponsored by Ko-ken Tools, distributed in New Zealand by Hobeca.
Apprentice of the Year
For current ATNZ apprentices who are at least 18 months into their apprenticeship.
This award recognises apprentices who demonstrate advanced capability for their experience, consistently produce quality work, and make a valuable contribution to their workplace.
Sponsored by NZ Safety Blackwoods.
Why Enter
Gain national recognition
Have your skills and achievements recognised alongside outstanding ATNZ apprentices from across Aotearoa.
Showcase your work
Share the projects, responsibilities and practical skills that demonstrate how far you have progressed.
Build your profile
Add a respected regional or national achievement to your CV and future career story.
Recognise your workplace
Recognise the employers, supervisors and tradespeople who have supported your growth throughout your apprenticeship.
Win quality tools
Compete for $2,500 worth of tools to support your ongoing development and future trade career.
Celebrate your progress
Reflect on the skills, confidence and responsibility you have developed throughout your apprenticeship journey.
the process
How to Enter
Entries close at 5pm on Friday 6 November 2026
Only entries submitted through the 2026 ATNZ Awards tile in Canvas will be accepted.
Speak with your ATNZ Account Manager
Confirm which award you are eligible to enter.
Login to Canvas
Click on the ATNZ apprentice awards tile to submit your entry.
Upload your application statement
Cover your 2026 progress, key achievements and future ambitions.
Include photographs of your work
Show work you have completed during the past 12 months.
Attach your manager’s recommendation
Include a signed letter from your host company or employer manager.
Complete and submit your entry
Submit your full application with everything listed via Canvas.
Meet the 2025 Winners
Harrison Byrne
2025 ATNZ Rookie of the Year
Lion, Auckland
Harrison is completing a Mechanical Engineering apprenticeship in General Engineering and works within Lion’s engineering and maintenance team.
Although still early in his apprenticeship, he stood out through his attitude, reliability and hands-on performance. Judges particularly recognised his willingness to take responsibility, apply feedback and contribute positively in the workplace.
His success shows that apprentices can distinguish themselves from the beginning through the attitude and effort they bring to their training.
Josiah Barlow
2025 ATNZ Apprentice of the Year
We Can Precision Engineering Ltd, Hastings
Josiah, who is completing a Mechanical Engineering apprenticeship in Machining, was recognised for his outstanding technical ability, precision and problem-solving skills.
Judges were impressed by his ability to consistently produce high-quality work in complex machining situations and his professional approach beyond what would normally be expected at his stage of training.
Josiah also received the 2025 Bill Buckley Engineering Scholarship, further recognising his capability and future potential.