
Building the future, together.
The NZCB Apprentice Network is more than a membership group, it’s a community of emerging builders on the journey toward skill mastery, professional growth and industry leadership. Best of all it’s all free!
We know being an apprentice isn’t just about learning a trade. It’s about feeling supported, connected and part of something bigger. That’s why the Apprentice Network exists – to give every trainee a sense of belonging not just to NZCB, but to their local community as well.


The NZCB Apprentice Network is supported by GIB.
What you get as a part of the Apprentice Network
By joining the Apprentice Network, you’re not just connected with other apprentices, you also become an NZCB Trainee Member, unlocking opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive. From day one, you’ll have access to:


Events & Activities
- Leadership camp, site tours, community builds, and regional apprentice meetups.


Toolshed
- You'll get access to the Toolshed, our member portal for NZCB Members where you can access member deals and benefits.


Learning Support
- Workshops on essentials like numeracy, literacy, business basics and health & safety delivered online and in person.


Mentorship & Guidance
- Opportunities to connect with senior apprentices, mentors, even high school students interested in joining the trade.


Networking & Socials
- BBQs, sports events, and casual get-togethers where you can share experiences with others walking the same path.


Recognition & Celebration
- Showcasing apprentice achievements across the year; not just competition winners but everyone contributing to the future of building.
Apprentice Challenge
One event, many stories
The NZCB Apprentice Challenge remains a flagship event, but it’s only one part of the wider Apprentice Network.
The challenge is a high-profile moment to showcase your skills, with the Apprentice Network celebrating apprentices’ growth, journeys and successes all year around.


Why join?
The NZCB Apprentice Network is designed to:
- Connect you with a community of like-minded apprentices
- Provide structured learning and training opportunities
- Support you through mentoring and workplace guidance
- Create pathways into the industry and future leadership.
Looking ahead
- 2025 and beyond is about engagement, opportunity and identity. We're working on:

- An annual calendar of learning, social and networking events

- Expanded industry partnerships that open new doors

- Stronger online and social media presence to keep apprentices connected all year round.
This is your network.
Be part of it.
Already a NZCB Trainee Member? You’re automatically in.

Frequently asked questions
For apprentices
Apprenticeships are generally offered by builders within the building and construction industry. You should consider the type of building work you want to undertake and approach a builder directly. Often the best method is cold calling, although the NZCB Apprentice Network can assist with apprenticeship placement. You should have good general fitness, a Restricted or Full NZ Drivers Licence and a willingness to learn. Apprentices need to be atleast 16 years of age, and parental or legal guardian consent is required if under 18 years of age.
Apprenticeships are no longer tied to fixed hours or minimum time-served models, they are based on industry competency and individual ability. However, you should expect to serve 3-4 years to complete the full Level 4 NZ Certificate in Carpentry.
A carpentry apprentice must be in full-time employment and have a Training Plan in place with a recognised Training Provider.
The New Zealand Employment Law is very clear; apprentices should be employees and not Individual Contractors to a Principal Contractor.
Yes, NZCB under the Apprentice Network, as an Industry stakeholder can address valid concerns on your behalf.
The Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) produces the Code of Good Practice for New Zealand Apprenticeships. It has information for work-based training programmes leading to various careers.