118 | Apprentice show his calibre Winners are grinners - Kodi and Kieran. New Vision Building T T Kelly Deeks BUILDING Kerikeri-based residential building company New Vision Building and Construction is celebrating the success of fourth-year apprentice Kodi Chamberlin, who recently took out the Bay of Islands/Far North heat of the New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) Apprentice Challenge. Kodi earned top marks in the regional competition held in Whangārei, where apprentices had eight hours to complete a complex planter box build. His effort secured him a spot in the national finals. Kodi found the regional competition day a lot of fun, but stressful at times, and he chose to donate his completed planter box to Kaikohe East Primary School, where his mum is deputy principal. New Vision Building director Kieran Horne says Kodi’s achievement is the result of four years of hands-on training, responsibility, and a strong work ethic. “Kodi has been with us since he was fresh out of school,” Kieran says. “We were doing some work for his parents, and I noticed him hanging around with not much to do. I invited him to give us a hand and he’s been here ever since.” Kodi, who also has a background in competitive show jumping, was at a crossroads when he joined the team. Kieran says the skills and discipline Kodi gained from horse training have translated well to the building site. “He’s always been willing to take initiative, he’s constantly learning and problem-solving, and he genuinely wants to improve,” Kieran says. “He’s not here to hold the tape or sweep the floor – we’ve put real responsibility on his shoulders.” That responsibility has included leading his own, small-scale projects over the past 18 months, including decks, kitchens and bathrooms, where he coordinates subcontractors, orders materials, and liaises directly with clients, all under Kieran’s daily guidance. In a full-circle moment, Kodi is now project lead on the re-roof and re-clad of his parents’ home. New Vision Building’s approach to apprenticeship training is grounded in hands-on learning, communication, and trust. “We don’t believe in hierarchy,” Kieran says. “We’re a small crew of four to five, and everyone pitches in, from the senior guys to the apprentices. The best way to learn is by doing.” The company was established in 2016 when Kieran relocated from Auckland, bringing with him years of experience in residential construction. New Vision Building specialises in new builds, renovations, and additions, and is a member of New Zealand Certified Builders, offering clients the 10-year Halo Guarantee. While the business has scaled up and down over the years, Kieran says its focus remains on quality work and strong client relationships. “Our repeat business rate is high because we do everything from big builds to small jobs like fences and bathrooms. We never turn down the opportunity to help someone out.” Kieran sees the Apprentice Challenge as a valuable tool for developing talent and recognising hard work. “I’ve always told Kodi his apprenticeship is like his university, with the same responsibility to do the work and learn the skills and earn the qualification, except he’s earning while he learns, he’s building a future, and he’s taking ownership of his career.” Proud supporters of New Vision Building K I E R A N H O R N E 0 2 1 1 4 5 8 1 1 2 A D M I N @ N E W V I S I O N B U I L D I N G . C O . N Z
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