Career
Information Technology Management Cup
Noakes made his debut for Otago in 2007 and was a regular starter by the 2008 Air New Zealand Cup, where he scored 51 points for the province. After missing most of the 2010 Information Technology Management Cup through injury, Noakes returned to start the final four matches of the season. Super Rugby
Noakes was signed by the Highlanders for the 2012 Super Rugby season.
Initially expected to be a depth player, injuries to Colin Slade and Lima Sopoaga thrust him into a more prominent role, and he made 12 appearances including 7 starts, totalling 86 points in the process.
London Irish
On 1 May 2014, Noakes moved to England when he signed for London Irish to compete in the Aviva Premiership with a two-year contract from the 2014-2015 season.