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. We’re always thinking outside the box to achieve beyond your expectation. From resource recovery to cutting-edge recycling technology development solutions, innovation is in our DNA.
Science-Backed Solutions
Science-Backed Solutions
Science-Backed Solutions
Our methods are grounded in the latest science and engineering principles, ensuring that everything we provide is backed by research. Whether your business is aiming for cost reduction, reducing your environmental footprint or boosting your sustainability credentials, we’ll help you find the most impactful 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’re not just consultants; we’re long-term partners, dedicated to empowering everyone we work with. 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 understand that true change can’t happen in silos. It takes a village and we’re here to help connect the dots. We take initiatives to partner with councils, schools, businesses and other organisations that share our values and goals to leverage the momentum.
Integrity
Community Engagement
Integrity
We believe in being upfront, honest and transparent in everything we do. Integrity is the foundation of our relationships with all stakeholders. Our approach is practical, straightforward and results-focused. We are committed to working with you every step to ensure that your objectives are met in the most ethical and efficient way.
Meet the Core 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 NZ 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 NZ 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 at Preycle NZ.
Michelle is 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 fulfills her career growth but also inspires her to contribute to our shared mission of creating meaningful and sustainable solutions.
Michelle's role at Precycle NZ is as the head of our marketing team.
She leads the development and implementation of marketing strategies and plans. Her approach ensures that every campaign not only represents Precycle NZ’s mission but also builds meaningful connections with our audience, driving impactful engagement and long-term partnerships. 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.