Skills earn plumber regional win

• Published date: 03 November 2021
• Publication title: Courier, The

Mr McKerchar — of McKerchar Plumbing & Gas — said this was his first year competing in the event ‘‘so I’m blown away to have won. It was pretty close as I was tied for first equal.’’

His faster time saw him take the title.

‘‘I’m really looking forward to challenging myself again in the final.’’

Participants had to be under 31 years of age. They completed a series of 11 plumbing disciplines — assessed by a panel of judges — in addition to a written test.

Timaru Plumbing World branch manager, Scott Walker, said the win was a well-deserved reflection of Mr McKerchar’s skill set and expertise.

“I’m so proud of Andrew having won his regional competition.

‘‘He has an absolutely fantastic work ethic, along with the skills to take out the national title. I look forward to seeing how he does later on in the year.”

Supporting and encouraging fresh talent to enter and thrive in the industry was imperative to the industry at a time when New Zealand required new plumbers to meet the increasing demand, Mr Walker said.

Mr McKerchar will go on to compete against the top 10 plumbers from across New Zealand who will take part in the national finals being held in Hamilton...