The winners of the inaugural Rural Contractor Trainee of the Year awards have been announced.
Mat Peart from Sims Contractors in Otaki won the North Island title. Photo: Supplied
The contest saw eight finalists join the Hanzonjobs initiative where they have to record their daily work experiences, supported by employers and mentors.
Mat Peart from Sims Contractors in Ōtaki won the North Island title and Josh Chittock from Oxford Agricultural Services was announced the South Island winner.
Peart said he was quite nervous going into the Zoom call where judging took place but was soon put at ease by the judges.
"The judges helped heaps to just make it more of a casual convo than me talking to a panel of judges, I loved every minute of it."
Josh Chittock from Oxford Agricultural Services was announced the South Island winner. Photo: Supplied
Josh Chittock said being a finalist allowed him to extend himself and his interview skills.
"It also made me realise the opportunities in the contracting sector are endless, the Hanzon app is a great way of recording all your skills in one place for future personal development."
The winners will receive $3000 to advance their careers.