Published: Monday, 20 April 2026
Apprentice Electrician, Eva Burgess, first few weeks at LPC has exposed her to cranes, straddles, and machinery.
Based at Te Whare Whakatika Eva is learning what it takes to keep the port moving.
“Most of the time we’re up the cranes, and we spend a fair bit of time at coal. I’ve also been out to MidlandPort for a problem with a gate, so it’s a real mix of things,” Eva says.
For Eva, one of the most striking parts of working at the port has been both the physical scale of the equipment and the technology behind it.
“So much is going on around LPC. The cranes are massive. Everything is super technical and you can check on a lot of equipment through a computer,” Eva explains.
While the environment is complex, Eva says the workshop team has made learning feel approachable.
“Everyone’s been super welcoming, I feel like I’m being taught rather than just observing, which is really nice,” Eva says.
Eva completed her pre-trade at the end of last year and worked in the healthcare sector prior.
Electrical Foreperson, Euan Brown, says that Eva’s been quite inquisitive, which is great for the job.
“She’s interacted really well with the team and has been proactive in every aspect of learning,” Euan says.
Apprentices are introduced gradually to ensure safety and confidence.
“We’ve done light poles, setting up work permits and JSAs, and working with outside contractors. She’s also been involved with the container cranes with tasks like changing carbon brushes,” he adds.
“The only way to learn is to be proactive, and she really has been. I see a bright future for her, and we’ll make sure she’s exposed to as much as possible,” Euan says.
Eva says she is focused on building her confidence as she formally begins her apprenticeship.