At Think Water Marlborough, our water management team are backed by extensive industry training and deliver informed product advice and design solutions. We maintain membership with Irrigation New Zealand and keep up to date with industry news and events on a regular basis.
Our team are qualified to provide professional advice and services to all clients big or small. We are backed by comprehensive safety, quality assurance and environmental systems and will deliver your job safely, on time and within budget.
GREG SOMERVILLE
Director and Owner
Growing up on a farm in Wairoa, Hawkes Bay Greg attended Smedley Station, a cadet training farm before heading to Lincoln University to pursue a rural career. He has played professional rugby for both the Crusaders and the All Blacks and spent considerable time before and after his rugby career working with and in the rural sector.
What Greg enjoys about his role is that along with the team at Think Water Marlborough they can work together to help make difference to each customer that comes through the door and establish long standing relationships with the customers while having positive, enjoyable and interactive relationships with both staff and customers.
When he isn’t at work Greg enjoys spending time with his family and their adventures while taking the chance to divulge in his own pastimes on the water fishing or in the hills hunting.
MIKE MELDAU
Operations Manager
Mike Meldau has been with Think Water since August 2020, bringing with him a wealth of hands-on experience and a background rooted in both construction and water infrastructure. Before joining the team, Mike worked as a self-employed builder and later at Marlborough District Council in water reticulation, giving him a solid foundation in both structural and water systems.
In his role as Operations Manager, Mike is known for his calm leadership and strong problem-solving abilities—his favourite part of the job. His wide-ranging qualifications reflect a commitment to continuous improvement and practical excellence. Mike holds a New Zealand Certificate in Utilities Maintenance (Water, Stormwater, and Wastewater), a New Zealand Certificate in Agriculture (Vehicles, Machinery, and Infrastructure), and is a qualified builder. He also holds a New Zealand Certificate in Fire and Rescue Services and a Certificate of Achievement from Think Water Academy.
Mike is a reliable and knowledgeable leader who thrives under pressure and enjoys seeing complex projects through to completion. Outside of work, he’s a dedicated family man who loves the outdoors. His practical skills, community spirit, and passion for innovation make him an integral part of the Think Water team.
GRANT CLIFFORD
Design / Sales Engineer
With nearly 35 years of experience in the water industry, Grant Clifford brings deep expertise and passion to his role as a Design and Sales Engineer at Think Water Blenheim. Grant joined the team in January 2024, following a 15-year tenure at WaterForce and nearly two decades running his own business in Hawkes Bay.
Grant holds a B.Agr from Massey University. He specialises in rural stock water systems, solar pumping, and farm and pastoral irrigation design. His technical knowledge and practical insight make him a valuable asset to farmers and rural clients across the region.
One of Grant’s favourite aspects of the job is seeing a project through from design to completion — especially witnessing the customer’s satisfaction when water finally flows from the tap. His attention to detail and customer-first mindset ensure solutions are tailored, efficient, and sustainable.
Outside of work, Grant is an avid adventurer, spending his time kayaking, cycling, climbing, and tramping. His commitment to both work and recreation reflects his energetic and solution-driven approach, making him a perfect fit for the Think Water team.
ETHAN ALDERLIESTE
Sales and Design Engineer
Ethan Alderlieste has been a valued member of the Think Water Marlborough team since 2020, bringing nearly five years of experience in irrigation design and engineering. With experience in mechanical engineering, he’s built a strong foundation in system design, maintenance and installation.
Now working as a Sales and Design Engineer, Ethan uses his skills in IRRICAD, AutoCAD and centrifugal pump systems to deliver smart, tailored irrigation solutions for clients. He’s passionate about designing systems that use water efficiently and sustainably—helping clients make the right decisions based on their needs and budget. He also enjoys using automation and data to fine-tune irrigation performance and improve crop outcomes.
Outside of Think Water, Ethan has spent the past three years coaching rowing at Marlborough Boys College, mentoring students to grow both as athletes and as individuals. Ethan’s blend of technical knowledge, sustainability focus, and community spirit make him a key asset to the Think Water team and to the wider Marlborough community.
RAY SMITH
Retail Lead & Technical Support
Ray Smith joined Think Water in 2014 and brings with him a diverse background in trade-related sales and design. With previous roles at PWL, Hagley Joinery, and Mitre 10, Ray has extensive experience in technical sales and trade management. At Think Water, he specialises in designing unique, tailored solutions for complex water management problems—an aspect of the job he thrives on.
Ray’s qualifications are extensive and reflect his commitment to continuous learning and industry excellence. He holds an Irrigation Certificate III, Rural Operations Certificate III, and has completed numerous technical courses including the Think Water IRRICAD Design Course, Domestic Fire Sprinkler Design, and foundational training in both pump and filtration principles. Ray has also earned the prestigious NZMPTA Water Industry Certificate of Recognition and NZMPTA Certificate of Achievement in both Small Drinking Water Supplies and Water Safety Planning.
Beyond work, Ray is known for his passion for giving back to the community—whether it’s through charity skydiving, supporting local causes, or helping out with the local scouts. He’s also a proud father and an avid woodworker who enjoys crafting in his spare time. Ray’s combination of technical knowledge, practical experience, and community spirit makes him a valued member of the Think Water team.
GAVIN SCHWASS
Store Salesperson
With a diverse background in sales, management, and store operations across the retail, agricultural, and hospitality sectors in both New Zealand and Australia, Gavin Schwass brings a wealth of life and industry experience to Think Water Marlborough. Since joining the team in November 2020, Gavin has spent over four years supporting daily operations and helping the business run smoothly behind the scenes.
Gavin works in a combined Sales and Inward Goods role, ensuring stock control is handled efficiently while also assisting colleagues and customers alike. His practical handyman skills, backed by a range of certificates in pumps, filtration, and Karcher products, allow him to contribute meaningfully across a range of tasks and technical areas.
Known for his reliability and team spirit, Gavin takes pride in making sure incoming goods are processed to a high standard and enjoys the daily customer interactions — particularly when he can help solve a problem or find the right solution.
Outside of work, Gavin is a passionate rugby union fan and a proud family man who cherishes time with his granddaughters. He’s also active in his church community, enjoys e-bike rides, and loves winding down with a good glass of red — though never at the same time!