The Wairarapa has finally won him over! Seasoned property lawyer John Steel has officially joined Gibson Sheat’s Masterton office. Bringing a wealth of experience and a genuine connection to the region, his presence will provide valuable continuity for clients during Julie Millar’s well-earned sabbatical in 2025, when she’ll be teaching English in Spain. This move allows him to fully embrace the Wairarapa lifestyle and share his expertise with the local community.
John’s story is a quintessential Kiwi tale, beginning on the rugged West Coast of New Zealand. Growing up amidst the wild beauty of the region instilled in him a deep appreciation for the natural world and a resilient spirit. He comes from a rugby and horse racing background, with a 1924 Invincible amongst his family and the 1962 Auckland Trotting Cup. His education included schooling at Christchurch Boy’s High as a boarder, followed by university at Otago and Canterbury, experiences that broadened his horizons and laid the foundation for his professional journey.
Like many young New Zealanders, John embarked on his OE, landing in London, where he absorbed the vibrant culture and gained invaluable life experience. Returning to New Zealand, he honed his legal skills in the corporate world, working in-house at both the Meat Board and Mobil, Fairfax and a stint in a venture capital company. This diverse background provided him with a solid base in commercial law, setting the stage for his move into private practice.
A significant period of John’s career was spent at Harkness Law, where he rose to the position of partner. In 2014, Harkness Law merged with Gibson Sheat, expanding John’s professional network and providing access to greater resources. For the next ten years, John thrived as a partner in Gibson Sheat’s Wellington office, specialising in commercial and residential property law, with a particular focus on unit title developments.
His connection to the Wairarapa deepened when a friend subdivided land in Longbush. John not only handled the legal aspects of the subdivision but also purchased the final lot for himself. He has since developed the land, building a cabin, creating a personal retreat where he can unwind and enjoy the region’s natural beauty. “It’s a fantastic change of pace,” John says of his move to the Wairarapa. “I’m really enjoying being part of the community and exploring everything the region has to offer." The other stroke of good fortune is that his daughter Molly is living and working in Masterton, so he is able to catch up with her for a coffee during the week.
John’s expertise in commercial property and unit titles is considerable. He has acted for developers on numerous high-profile projects in Wellington’s CBD, including the Spark Building on Willis Street, the Tattoo Apartments on Abel Smith Street, and the Ink'd Apartments on Pirie Street, among others. His involvement in these complex developments demonstrates his strategic approach and deep understanding of the intricacies of commercial property and unit title law. He has also advised numerous private property investors, from first-time buyers to seasoned professionals, on navigating the complexities of the property market. “I enjoy the strategy, the personalities, and the challenges behind developments, unit title rules, and body corporate issues,” John explains. This passion is evident in his practical, pragmatic, and personable approach to client relationships, qualities he considers essential for success. He is really looking forward to getting more involved with rural transaction and believes his grounding in property transactions will hold him in good stead.
John’s arrival in Masterton coincides with Julie Millar’s exciting sabbatical. Julie will be taking a year off in 2025 to teach English in Spain, a testament to her adventurous spirit and dedication to personal growth. While she is away, John will be providing his expertise to the Masterton team, ensuring a seamless transition for clients. He will be working closely with Aimee McGowan, the other partner in the Masterton office. “It’s great to have John join us,” says Aimee. “It’s definitely a bit of a change-up – he’s officially our only man in Masterton! But in the best way possible, of course. We're looking forward to a productive and fun year ahead, and it’s fantastic to have his experience here.” The Masterton office is certainly looking forward to this new dynamic, welcoming the “new man” and reckon he'll fit right in.
