Rotorua-based plumbing apprentice Dave Hodgson has won a Plumbing World Scholarship at the national New Zealand Plumbing awards, held on Friday May 31 in Queensland.

Five Plumbing World Scholarships were presented to top apprentices completing their qualifications through the Master Plumbers-owned Masterlink mentored training scheme.

Dave, who is a third-year plumbing and gasfitting apprentice at The Lewis Plumbing Company, was entered for the scholarship by his boss Jon Lewis, who described him as mature beyond his 23 years.

"His ability to communicate and follow through on instructions has never been a problem," says Jon. "There are not many apprentices I would rate as highly."

Dave Hodgson with his partner Dora Remmerswaal

Dave was given a helping hand in his plumbing career choice by the branch manager of a local plumbing store.

Recognising his promise, she recommended him to The Lewis Plumbing Company as a "standout young man".

From those early days of his apprenticeship, Dave has developed into a confident and skilful member of the team, with excellent communication skills.

"He goes from strength to strength and gives 100 percent to any tasks I ask him to do," says Jon.

Dave also now helps to coach other apprentices coming through the company.

Aaron Jamieson from BOP Plumbing, Rotorua won the 2019 New Zealand Training Leader of the Year award.

As a Plumbing World Scholarship winner, Dave receives $1,000 to spend at his local Plumbing World branch.

Rae and Ralph McBeth (McBeth Plumbing & Gas), Jan and Jon Lewis (Lewis Plumbing Co), Dave Hodgson and Dora Remmerswaal, and Aaron and Sarah Jamieson (BOP Plumbing & Gas)