16 | Kiwi Lumber Holdings T T Kelly Deeks Well-deserved win for local apprentice Kiwi Lumber’s Masterton-based apprentice electrician Aidan Hodgkinson took out the Initiative Award at the 2025 Master Electricians Apprentice Challenge. “Aidan put himself forward, backed himself, and came out on top. We are proud to be supportive enough to give someone the opportunity to reach that level, and it’s a real reflection on our in-house training programme.” Kiwi Lumber is celebrating national recognition for one of its rising stars, with Masterton-based apprentice electrician Aidan Hodgkinson taking out the Initiative Award at the 2025 Master Electricians Apprentice Challenge. The win highlights both Aidan’s dedication and the company’s ongoing commitment to developing skilled tradespeople across its North Island operations. Kiwi Lumber compliance coordinator Bernadine McGruddy says the award is a proud moment for the Masterton team. “We’re a small community, and seeing someone who has worked so hard achieve this level of success is incredibly rewarding,” she says. “Aidan put himself forward, backed himself, and came out on top. We are proud to be supportive enough to give someone the opportunity to reach that level, and it’s a real reflection on our in-house training programme.” The Apprentice Challenge drew more than 300 competitors across seven regional rounds from Dunedin to Auckland, with the top 10 finalists facing off in Queenstown. The competition tested real-world skills in four modules, including motor starter wiring, fault diagnostics, and PLC programming, all under timed, high-pressure conditions. Aidan impressed judges with his professionalism, health and safety focus, and ability to respond on the spot, earning him the prestigious Initiative Award. Bernadine says Kiwi Lumber has long invested in hands-on training to ensure a skilled workforce is available across its five sites in Masterton, Putaruru, Gisborne, Dannevirke and now Ohinewa. “We have complex machinery, so having qualified industrial electricians on hand is essential,” she says. “There simply aren’t enough people in New Zealand with that experience, so we like to train our own.” Kiwi Lumber’s apprenticeship programme extends well beyond electricians. It also develops mechanical engineers, timber machinists, and saw doctors, all vital roles within its sawmill operations. Community engagement is another core focus. Kiwi Lumber has recently hosted open days for local schools and held family days for staff. Every Christmas, the team votes on local organisations to support. Bernadine says the company’s diverse workforce, including staff from the Philippines, South Africa, India, and across New Zealand, enriches the workplace culture. “It brings a lot of tolerance and understanding into the workplace. “Everyone learns from each other.” Kiwi Lumber Masterton produces structural timber for construction and outdoor products for the New Zealand domestic market. The work is challenging but rewarding, and there are opportunities for those willing to put in the effort. “If people want to work, there is work there. It’s demanding, but with apprentices like Aidan coming through, everyone wins. Aidan’s success demonstrates not only his own dedication, but also Kiwi Lumber’s ongoing investment in growing a skilled, resilient workforce that will support New Zealand’s infrastructure and building needs well into the future. REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT
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