Christchurch's 'cardboard cathedral' will be the setting for the first of two PrintNZ Training Graduation Ceremonies.

The event at 4 pm on April 16 inaugurates a new programme of recognition for trainees. Another will take place the following week on April 22 April at the Heritage Hotel in Auckland.

Graduates will be recognised by industry peers in front of fellow employees, employers and family and friends in what is intended as an opportunity to celebrate and reward those that are achieving in the industry.

Specially-designed graduation medals are to be presented, and some graduates will be further recognised as 'apprentice of the year' finalists and semi-finalists. The training company of the year, workplace trainer of the year and Diploma in Print Management trainee of the year will also be named.

PrintNZ general manager Ruth Cobb says the events are a valuable opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the people and the businesses that "will ensure print remains a strong and vibrant industry".

Five apprentice of the year finalists will attend the Pride In Print awards on May 1 in Wellington where the winner will be announced.