Queenstown apprentice Tom Neilson, 25, emerged the victor of the New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) Apprentice Challenge, with just two points separating him from second-placed Josh Boyd, 24, also of Queenstown.
Third-placed Sam Johnson, 19, of Wanaka, finished five points down.
To be put forward by your employer to compete was nevertheless a "milestone" and ensured the apprentices were recognised for their skills, he said.
"They were judged right down to the last millimetre. It is nerve-racking, especially when you are under time pressure. We thought they might be finished by lunch time, but they went right down to the wire and finished at 4.30pm. There was a high level of attention to detail with all of them," Mr Duffy said.
The picnic tables were assessed by a panel of expert judges who looked at technical aspects such as the quality of workmanship, measuring, cutting and assembly, and other essential skills while working against the clock.
Their ability to follow a detailed plan and safe working technique was also judged.
The national winner will be awarded the Ken Read Memorial Trophy and $50,000 worth of prizes.
The picnic tables built on Saturday will be sold to raise money for the NZCB Apprentice Trust, which is designed to support members of the Apprentice Network with grants and scholarships.
