The father of five, from Te Kuiti, still finds speaking in public challenging, but he’s determined his carpet/vinyl laying business, King Country Flooring, will be successful.

Supported by his wife Maarea, he recently pitched his plan to expand his business to a He Kākano panel and he was granted $15,000.

Nikamu says he will use the funds to upgrade equipment, buy tools, and hire an assistant, as he has plenty of support in his local community and a backlog of orders to fill.