Nigel Stirling
Nigel helps sporting bodies and businesses run smoothly on and off the field
Nigel Stirling is one of New Zealand’s most experienced sports and commercial lawyers. He helps commercial clients, incorporated societies, not-for-profits, and public sector organisations navigate how their organisations operate on and off the field. He’s particularly known for his expertise in sports governance, commercial contracts, constitutions and rules for incorporated societies, and the legal frameworks that support sport, recreation, and Māori business.
Nigel acts for national and regional sports organisations, helping them with everything from sponsorship and event contracts to tribunal rules and dispute resolution. He has a strong insight into how sporting bodies function and is regularly called on to advise boards and executives on strategy, structure and legal risk.
He is regularly ranked in the Chamber Directory as a leading sports lawyer in New Zealand and he is a life member of the Australian and New Zealand Sports Law Association (ANZSLA).
Beyond the sports sector, Nigel supports a wide range of clients with company and contract law, intellectual property, joint ventures, business structuring, shareholder agreements, and technology contracts. He is known for his approachable, thoughtful advice and wide commercial perspective.
Nigel has been with Gibson Sheat since 1983 and is Chair of the firm. He has also held leadership roles outside the firm, including Chair of Lawlink and trustee and board positions with sport and community organisations.
