Our 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."

Email: Nelson@precycle.co.nz

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.

Email: Caleb@precycle.co.nz

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 an event waste supervisor.

Email: Michelle@precycle.co.nz

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. Amy is also a confident and capable editor, ensuring our reports look consistent and professional.

Email: Amy@precycle.co.nz

Tamati Pere - Sales Representative

Tamati is an experienced sales professional with a diverse background spanning retail, insurance, and telemarketing. As Sales Representative at Precycle NZ, he is committed to building strong and meaningful relationships with clients and promoting our science-backed solutions that help businesses save costs, reduce their environmental footprint, and achieve long-term sustainability goals.

With a passion for sustainability, Tamati has embraced Precycle's core values and is passionate about finding ways to bring real value and enhancing our customer experience. Outside of work, Tamati enjoys participating in semi-professional musicals with his daughters, gaming and darts. He also co-owns an eSports organisation.