The Apprentice Aotearoa

Challenges

The first challenge aired on 10 May 2021, with project managers Michael (Mana) and Kyria (Tahi). The task was to create a new popcorn flavour appealing to both kids and parents. Tahi received 25,000 orders, Mana received 11,500 orders, and Tahi won. The reward was a visit to Sabrage Champagne Bar. Michael, Tony, and Ish were brought into the boardroom, and Ish Ryklief was fired for being quiet throughout the task and in the boardroom and for throwing himself under the bus.

The second challenge aired on 17 May 2021, with project managers Bari (Mana) and Nicola (Tahi). The task was to design and sell a new range of summer robes to two leading retailers. Tahi received 1,300 orders with a profit of $156,000, while Mana received 400 orders with a profit of $59,600. Tahi won, and the reward was a beer tasting session and tour at Brothers' Brewery. Bari, Gabriel, and Stephen were brought into the boardroom, and Bari Samadi was fired for making costly decisions and not focusing the team.

A team reshuffle occurred on 24 May 2021: Stephen and Tony moved to Tahi, while Kyria, Nicola, and Vanessa moved to Mana. The third challenge had project managers Kennedy (Mana) and Tony (Tahi), who were tasked with creating a social media campaign to get Kiwis to Hamilton. Tahi fulfilled the brief better than Mana and won, earning a reward at MASU Restaurant SkyCity. Kennedy, Kyria, and Nicola were brought into the boardroom, and Nicola Spicer was fired for being responsible for the presentation team and failing to lead the team.

The fourth challenge aired on 31 May 2021, with project managers Vanessa (Mana) and Shardae (Tahi). The task was to create and sell ice cream at an Auckland farmer's market. Tahi made a profit of $342.47, while Mana made a profit of $509.03, making Mana the winner. The reward was a 1920s high tea at Hotel DeBrett. Shardae, Erna, and Stephen were brought into the boardroom, and Shardae Mitha was fired for not controlling the negativity within her team.