The Apprentice Network

A community where apprentices belong and thrive.
nzcb apprentice

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.  

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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:

nzcb builders benefits
nzcb builders benefits

Events & Activities

nzcb builders benefits
nzcb builders benefits

Toolshed

nzcb builders benefits
nzcb builders benefits

Learning Support

nzcb builders benefits
nzcb builders benefits

Mentorship & Guidance

nzcb builders benefits
nzcb builders benefits

Networking & Socials

nzcb builders benefits
nzcb builders benefits

Recognition & Celebration

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.

apprentice in the midst of the skills test at the nzcb conference and expo
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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

nzcb builders benefits
nzcb builders benefits
nzcb builders benefits

This is your network.

Be part of it.

Already a NZCB Trainee Member? You’re automatically in.

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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.