Meet Our Management Team
Nikora Eaglesome
Managing Director
Started with Think Water Hawkes Bay: 2017
Hometown: Wairoa
Experience & Background
I have over 13 years of experience in the water and irrigation industry. I began my career as a cadet and progressed through hands-on technical roles into management and leadership positions. That journey has given me a strong practical understanding of irrigation systems, pumping solutions, and field operations, along with the commercial and strategic aspects of running a business.
My background allows me to relate to both technicians in the field and clients at a management and project level, understanding the challenges and priorities from both perspectives.
Role at Think Water Hawkes Bay
As Managing Director, I’m responsible for overseeing the overall direction and performance of the business. My role includes strategic planning, financial forecasting and budgeting, tendering, and project oversight, while also supporting field teams when required.
I remain actively involved in operations and believe in leading from the front, with a strong focus on quality workmanship, safety, and building long-term customer relationships.
Why Think Water Hawkes Bay
I enjoy the variety that comes with working at Think Water Hawke’s Bay. No two days are the same — one day I might be in the office preparing tenders or reviewing budgets, and the next I could be out in the back blocks servicing a centre pivot or repairing a pump.
I value the outdoor nature of the work and take pride in being part of a business that delivers practical, reliable solutions for our customers. Most importantly, I enjoy working with a tight-knit team that supports each other and collaborates to get the job done right.
Interests Outside of Work
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time outdoors. My hobbies include golf, rugby, hunting, and fishing.
Natasha Kara
Business Manager
When did you start working for Think Water Hawkes Bay: 12/9/2024
Where is my hometown: Napier
Experience & Background
25+ years in the retail sector in various Retail, Senior, and National Management roles. Qualification in Business Management and Administration.
Hobbies: Family takes up most of my time
Why Think Water Hawkes Bay
We have the most amazing team, every day is different but the same. We are forever evolving and learning; it’s been a pleasure to see the growth not only in the business but in the individuals; we wouldn’t be where we are without our staff.
Liam Taylor
Business Development Manager
Started with Think Water Hawkes Bay: 2017
Hometown: Napier
Experience & Background
I joined Think Water in 2017 as a Retail Store Manager, gaining strong hands-on experience across irrigation, pumping, and water treatment solutions. Over time, this role expanded into working closely with commercial, rural, and lifestyle customers to design practical, cost-effective systems that perform in real-world conditions.
Certificate of Recognition from NZMPTA
My background combines technical knowledge with customer-facing experience, giving me a solid understanding of both the systems we supply and the challenges our customers face.
Role at Think Water Hawkes Bay
As Business Development Manager at Think Water Hawke’s Bay, I focus on building long-term customer relationships and identifying opportunities to improve water and irrigation outcomes. This includes working with clients, suppliers, and the wider Think Water team to deliver efficient, reliable solutions across agricultural, commercial, and residential projects.
Why Think Water Hawkes Bay
What I enjoy most is the problem-solving and the people. Think Water values practical thinking, quality solutions, and long-term partnerships rather than quick fixes. Having started in-store, I appreciate how the business supports growth, collaboration, and doing things properly—no shortcuts, no nonsense.
Interests Outside of Work
Outside of work, I enjoy being outdoors, fishing, hiking, and often volunteering with local projects or community events.
Anthony Waites
Pump and Irrigation sales, service, and Design
Started with Think Water Hawkes Bay: 2009
Hometown: Echuca, Victoria, Australia
Experience & Background
I’ve been involved in plumbing, pumping, and irrigation for over 37 years, building hands-on experience across residential, commercial, and agricultural projects. Over that time, I’ve seen the industry evolve significantly — from traditional systems to more efficient, technology-driven solutions. My focus has always been on practical, reliable water management systems that deliver long-term value for customers.
Hobbies:
Outside of work, you’ll usually find me on the water. I enjoy boating and fishing, Bach time, and relaxing at home on our riverside property. Being close to the water isn’t just part of my job — it’s part of my lifestyle too.
Why Think Water Hawkes Bay
Think Water Hawkes Bay is a business I started in 2009, so it’s incredibly rewarding to see how it has grown and continues to evolve. It’s exciting to be part of that ongoing journey and to see the business continue to adapt, improve, and serve the Hawke’s Bay community.
Ben Jones
Technician / Design Support
Started with Think Water Hawkes Bay: 2013-2023 & 2025
Hometown: Taupō
Experience & Background
I hold a Diploma in Horticulture and bring over 10 years of hands-on field installation experience. Working on irrigation systems in real-world conditions has given me a practical understanding of what works and what doesn’t. My role now combines that field knowledge with design support, helping ensure projects are well planned and delivered efficiently from start to finish.
Hobbies:
Outside of work, I enjoy hiking and camping, exploring new places, and making the most of the outdoors. I’m also interested in building and renovating, and I enjoy travel, history, and architecture.
Why Think Water Hawkes Bay
I enjoy providing practical solutions and working closely with the team to get projects across the line. It’s rewarding to be part of a business that delivers reliable systems and strong outcomes for our customers.
Brent Loader
Sales and Design Manager
Started with Think Water Hawkes Bay: April 2023
Hometown: Napier, but the older I get, the more I feel like Castlepoint is gaining in the rankings
Experience & Background
This year marks 20 years in the water and irrigation industry for me. Over that time, I’ve built a strong technical foundation backed by formal qualifications, including a Bachelor of Applied Science majoring in Natural Resource Management and Agriculture, a Certificate in Agricultural Engineering, and a Certificate in Irrigation Design. I’ve also been awarded the NZMPTA Water Industry Certificate of Recognition.
My background allows me to take a practical and science-based approach to water management, ensuring systems are efficient, sustainable, and fit for purpose. I’m passionate about delivering solutions that balance performance with responsible resource use.
Hobbies:
Outside of work, I enjoy fishing and spending time with my son, particularly taking him to sailing events. Being around the water is something I value both professionally and personally.
Why Think Water Hawkes Bay
I grew up on a farm and have always wanted to work in a business within or servicing the primary industries, so I went to uni and did an ag/natural resource management degree. There were a couple of irrigation modules within my degree, and I really enjoyed them!