Nominations are now open for the 2026 Bunnings Trade Women in Apprenticeships Awards, recognising female apprentices working across New Zealand’s trades sector and supporting their early career development.
Six apprentices will be selected to receive a support package valued at more than $11,000, designed to help them build their toolkits, training and practical experience as they progress through their apprenticeships.
Among the previous recipients is TRT fabrication welder Sasha Devia, who says the recognition has translated directly into practical benefits both at work and in the community. Devia, the company’s sole female fabrication welder, is approaching the completion of her four-year apprenticeship.
“The award has been huge for me,” Devia says. “I’ve been able to invest in tools I use every day at work, build confidence working on projects at home, and even help out my son’s ice hockey team by repairing a broken goal. Being able to give back using the skills I’m building is incredibly rewarding and it’s something I want to keep doing in my community.”
The awards programme focuses on recognising female apprentices working in traditionally male-dominated trades and supporting them during the early stages of their careers.
Devia says the experience has also encouraged her to think about how she can help others enter the trades.
“I’d love to create a space where women can learn the basics. How to use tools safely, change a tyre, or just feel confident having a go,” she says. “It’s about celebrating independence and knowing you can rely on yourself.”
Head of Bunnings Trade New Zealand Matt Heinrich says the programme aims to highlight the contribution female apprentices are making across the sector.
“These awards exist to recognise and celebrate women in the trades, and we’re proud to open nominations for 2026 and continue backing the people who strengthen the industry,” Heinrich says.
Previous recipients also include electrician Samantha Lee in Auckland, carpenter Mikyla Wardlaw-Ruru in Whakatāne, and carpenter Lola Williams in Napier, each representing different pathways into the trades.
Nominations close April 10, with winners expected to be announced in May. To nominate visit https://trade.bunnings.co.nz/campaign/women-in-apprenticeships.