East Auckland resident Pahoh Lee is about to have his vehicle glass repair and replacement skills put to the test. The Botany local is set to compete in Smith&Smith’s national competition, called ‘Best of New Zealand’, which is being staged in Auckland on June 12. It’s held every two years and Lee earned his place amongst the top six technicians in the country during Smith&Smith’s 150th anniversary year. “I never thought I would make it this far but here I am,” an excited Lee says. “It’s an opportunity to showcase everything I’ve learned from the technicians who have supported my development throughout my career.” If successful, Lee will travel to Portugal next year to represent New Zealand in the global competition called ‘The Best of Belron’, which has been likened to the Olympics of vehicle glass repair. Currently serving as a technician at Smith&Smith Botany, Lee’s journey began nearly three years ago when he joined the company. Since then, he’s steadily developed his skills and expertise, working with different technicians across the country who have taught him to think outside the box when faced with challenging installations. Known for his straightforward approach, Lee’s taking a practical view of the upcoming competition. “I’m expecting to do what I do every day – do my job as best as I can, and then have some lunch,” he says. The Best of New Zealand event is being held on Thursday, June 12, at The Cloud at Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour.