A Dunedin mechanic has beaten 300 others - mostly Australians - to claim an apprentice of the year award worth $12,500.
Ben Fretwell (20), of Mosgiel Towing and Mechanical, was announced winner of the Snap-on award yesterday in a ceremony at his workplace.
He was the first New Zealander to win the award in the seven years it has been held and was the only New Zealander to make the shortlist of 20.
Mr Fretwell was taken aback when the award was announced.
''This is just the biggest honour you can get,'' he said.
''I'm just gobsmacked. It means a lot.''
He was awarded $12,500 worth of tools and celebrated with family, friends and workmates.
Mosgiel Towing and Mechanical owner Tony Fox said he was most deserving of the award.
''Ben is exceptionally capable.
''He's got a good work ethic and he's got self-motivation.
''I know I can leave him on his own and if he gets stuck he can work through the problem.''
Mr Fretwell had to apply for the award and presented an ''impressive submission'' to the judges, who included V8 Supercar driver Michael Caruso.
Mr Fretwell is two years into an automotive engineering apprenticeship and was named the Otago Motor Trade Association apprentice of the year in July.
Snap-on sales development manager Andrew Bowley said the awards were initiated because there were apprentices in New Zealand and Australia who did really well but were never officially recognised.
The award was given to apprentices who went ''over and above'' what was required in the job, he said.
''He's a rising star of the industry.''
