Stewart Germann Honoured Internationally for Notarial Leadership

At a recent black-tie dinner during the International Notaries Conference in Adelaide, Stewart Germann was one of only three notaries appointed as an Honorary Member of the Notaries Society of England and Wales - an unexpected and significant honour.

The event brought together leading Notaries Public from across the common law world, including representatives from The Hague, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. Distinguished guests included Morag Ellis KC, Master of the Faculty Office in London (the governing body for all common law notaries), and the Governor of South Australia.

Notaries Public in New Zealand are appointed for life by the Archbishop of Canterbury. Stewart, a senior figure in both legal and notarial circles, has had direct engagement with the Faculty Office over many years.

Stewart is currently the President of the New Zealand Society of Notaries, which represents over 200 notaries nationwide New Zealand Society of Notaries . He also served as President of the Common Law Association of Notaries (C.L.A.N.) from 2000 to 2024 and continues as New Zealand’s Director C.L.A.N. In addition, he is a Governor of the Australia and New Zealand College of Notaries (ANZCN) 

While this honour reflects Stewart’s lifetime of service to the legal profession, it also holds wider implications for New Zealand businesses - especially those operating or expanding internationally.

“This recognition reinforces the global standing of New Zealand’s notarial profession,” says Stewart. “In a world of increasingly complex cross-border transactions, particularly in franchising, having reliable, internationally recognised notarial services is essential.”

For franchisors and franchisees, particularly those dealing with overseas agreements, visa documentation, trademarks, or compliance matters, the role of a Notary Public is often crucial. Stewart’s leadership ensures that New Zealand’s notaries are connected, credible, and aligned with global best practice - offering assurance to international partners.

As franchising continues to grow in New Zealand and outbound investment increases, Stewart’s recognition serves as a timely reminder of the value that internationally respected legal professionals bring to the sector.