Zak tops cable jointer competition at Annual Connection

Waipā Networks cable jointer Zak Ramsey has taken out first place at the Connexis Annual Connection Cable Jointing Competition, building on his third-place finish at last year’s event.

Over two challenging days, Zak won four of the seven events, showcasing skill, precision, and determination under pressure.

This year’s event, hosted by Orion, Connectics, and EA Networks in Christchurch, brought together the country’s best line mechanics and cable jointers to go head-to-head in a series of practical challenges designed to test technical skill, safety, speed, and teamwork under realistic field conditions.

The Connexis Annual Connection lines competition, which ended on Thursday last week, is widely recognised as one of, if not the, premier event on the electricity supply industry calendar.

Despite stormy weather adding to the difficulty this year, Zak said preparation and support made all the difference. He acknowledged the rest of the Waipā Networks team and support staff for their guidance and encouragement throughout the competition.

Waipā Networks’ line mechanics team also put in a valiant effort, competing strongly across their events against 16 other skilled crews. While they didn’t take home awards this time, line mechanic manager Mark Mita says their teamwork and commitment reflected the professionalism and pride Waipā Networks is known for.

With the majority of the team taking part in their first-ever competition, it was a valuable learning experience for everyone involved. Top Energy from the Far North took home first place in the highly competitive lines competition.

Mark Mita congratulated everyone involved, recognising the dedication and effort shown across the board despite the challenging conditions.

The team’s dedication didn’t end after the competition ended. When severe weather recently struck the central South Island, some of the Waipā Networks crew stayed behind in North Canterbury to help MainPower restore the network and support storm recovery.

Sean Horgan, Chief Executive of Waipā Networks, commended the team for their dedication, training, and thorough preparation throughout the competition.

“There’s also no doubt they’ll show up whenever some extra help is needed,” he says.

“Every day, our team shows remarkable expertise, care and commitment in their mahi. They set an outstanding example for our industry, and we’re extremely proud of them.”