Our Values
Innovation
Science-Backed Solutions
Science-Backed Solutions
We challenge the status quo. If you find yourself saying, "That’s the way it’s always been done," it’s time for a change. Our approach is rooted in finding better, smarter solutions. Whether you want to reduce waste costs, minimize your carbon footprint, or create a standout sustainability story, we focus on results that matter. We’re always thinking outside the box to deliver efficient and effective pathways to meet your goals. From waste reduction to cutting-edge recycling technologies, innovation is in our DNA.
Science-Backed Solutions
Science-Backed Solutions
Science-Backed Solutions
We’re committed to providing solutions that aren’t just theoretical—they work in the real world. Our methods are grounded in science and engineering principles, ensuring that everything we recommend is backed by research and proven to be effective. We don’t just talk about sustainability; we deliver it in ways that make a tangible difference to your business, industry, and community. Whether you're aiming for cost reduction or a smaller carbon footprint, we’ll help you find the most impactful, data-driven way to achieve it.
Growth of Our People
Science-Backed Solutions
Growth of Our People
Our success starts with our people. We invest in the growth of our team by providing postgraduate education opportunities and ongoing upskilling, because we know that when our people grow, so does our impact. We also place a high value on trust, respect, and collaboration—both within our team and with our clients. We’re not just consultants; we’re partners, dedicated to empowering everyone we work with. And it doesn’t stop there. We aim to help our clients connect with their communities, offering opportunities like litter clean-ups to give back and make a real difference on the ground.
Community Engagement
Community Engagement
Growth of Our People
We believe that sustainability is a collective effort—it requires more than just one business or one sector working alone. That’s why we partner with councils, schools, businesses, and other organizations that share our values and vision. We understand that true change can’t happen in silos. It takes a village, and we’re here to help connect the dots. Whether it’s through community projects or initiatives that reduce your business's environmental impact, we ensure that the change we help create extends beyond the individual and benefits the broader community.
Integrity
Community Engagement
Integrity
We believe in being upfront, honest, and transparent in everything we do. Integrity is the foundation of our relationships—with our clients, partners, and within our own team. Our approach is practical, straightforward, and results-focused. Whether your goal is to cut waste management costs, improve brand identity through sustainability, or become an industry leader in innovation, we’ll work with you every step of the way to ensure that you meet your objectives in the most ethical and efficient way possible.
Meet the team
Nelson Harper - Chief Executive Officer & Founder
Nelson is the founder of Precycle NZ and has a background in horticulture, science and chemical bioprocess engineering, but has always worn entrepreneurial glasses in everything he does. He has worked with many small and large businesses, the community non-profit sector, and councils. He has also been on several governance boards, including Engineering NZ, Repair Cafe Aotearoa NZ, Manawatū Young Chamber and currently chairs New Zealand Institute for International Affairs Palmerston North branch.
He likes brewing beer and spirits, gardening, camping, and he can play Guitar Hero on an expert level!
"I like the idea of proving the system wrong, that there is a better way of doing things. After seeing so much waste in businesses, it always looked like a massive opportunity to be able to make a difference and reduce the amount of resources being wasted."
Caleb Payne - Material Development Engineer, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of ReFib
Caleb has a background in mechatronics engineering and a master's in chemical engineering. Caleb's expertise lies in the development of processes to convert low value fibre waste into high value construction materials, and is working as CEO of ReFib (a Precycle NZ spin out) to commercialise these processes. Caleb's key professional skills include programming, CAD, and research and development.
Caleb's decision to join Precycle was driven by an exciting and impactful project presented by Nelson as both of their endeavours align with making a difference in sustainability and the construction industry. Through his involvement with Precycle and ReFib, Caleb has witnessed the staggering amount of waste in landfills, inspiring him to find innovative ways to utilize these waste streams and create positive change.
Outside of work, Caleb enjoys game nights with friends and family, exploring new destinations through travel, staying fit at the gym and through running, and immersing in captivating story-driven media like books, games, and TV shows.
Michelle Nguyen - Marketing Lead
Michelle's background includes marketing, events coordination and administration which enables her to effectively manage and support diverse projects. She's passionate about making a positive impact and see each challenge as an opportunity to grow, both personally and professionally. Being a part of Precycle NZ not only fulfils Michelle's career growth but also inspires her to contribute to our shared mission of creating meaningful and sustainable solutions.
Michelle's role at Precycle is as the head of our marketing team. She develops and implements marketing strategies for the Precycle NZ team and works with the team, contractors, and executive staff to ensure the marketing fits the branding, style, tone and capabilities. Michelle is also a confident and capable editor, ensuring our reporting looks consistent and professional.
Lucien Cowling - Sustainable Communities Officer
Lucien is an accomplished professional in the fields of graphic design and recycling. With a solid background in retail and over 4 years of experience, Lucien has honed their skills in customer service, ensuring that every interaction leaves a positive impression.
As a valued member of our team, Lucien brings their dedication to excellence in service to events, creating memorable and enjoyable experiences for all attendees. Their passion for delivering exceptional customer service and proficiency in graphic design allowing them to contribute to a diverse range of projects, including recent successes in crafting captivating social media images.
Their ability to seamlessly integrate exceptional customer care with visually engaging designs enables them to excel in various roles. They are committed to making a positive impact and driving success for the team, leaving a lasting impression on every project they undertake.
Amy McLaren - Business Administrator and Capacity Building Officer
Amy is a dynamic professional with a wonderful growth mindset. Her background covers science, education, music, artistic and administrative work. In the role of capacity building officer, she is working to develop processes for Precycle NZ's growth. She is also the friendly face behind our admin calls and emails!
Amy started as a microbiology lab technician in her late teens, moving to customer service/social media roles during her studies. She emerged with a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology. Following this she has worked in a wide range of roles in government and education. Throughout her career she has emphasized administrative skills, ensuring smooth operations and clear communication.