Sport Speakers
Essential Talent represents New Zealand's best-known sport speakers: All Blacks and their coaches, Black Ferns, Silver Ferns, Olympic champions and adventurers. They share what it takes to perform under pressure, build winning teams and bounce back from setbacks, and connect those lessons to your workplace. They're booked for conferences, sales kick-offs, awards dinners and client events around New Zealand and Australia.
Every speaker on this page is available to book through Essential Talent. Tell us about your audience and the message you want to get across, and we'll recommend two or three who fit.
Popular sport speakers by sport
All Blacks: Sean Fitzpatrick, Sir Wayne "Buck" Shelford, Kieran Read, Sam Cane, Justin Marshall, Andrew Mehrtens, Mils Muliaina
All Blacks coaches and high performance: Sir Graham Henry, Wayne Smith, Ian Foster, Gilbert Enoka
Black Ferns and Sevens: Ruby Tui, Tyla King (Nathan-Wong), Michaela Brake, Tim Mikkelson
Netball: Irene van Dyk, Maia Wilson
Cricket: Sir Richard Hadlee, Mike Hesson, Grant Elliott
Olympic champions: Eric Murray, Rob Waddell, Grace Prendergast & Kerri Gowler, Finn Butcher
Sailing, motorsport and golf: Jimmy Spithill, Greg Murphy, Steve Williams
Adventure and endurance: Peter Hillary, Mark Inglis, Lisa Tamati, Rob Hamill
Frequently asked questions
How does a sport speaker relate to a business audience?
Our sport speakers are experienced corporate presenters. Before the event, they talk with you about your audience and goals, then link their stories back to your world, whether that's teamwork, leading through pressure, handling setbacks or building a winning culture.
What format works best for a sport speaker?
A keynote works well for conferences and sales kick-offs. For awards nights and client functions, many organisers choose an after-dinner talk or a relaxed fireside chat with an MC, followed by audience questions. We can help you decide which format suits your event.
How far in advance should we book a sport speaker?
We recommend booking 8–12 weeks ahead for most speakers, and earlier for the busy conference seasons (March to June and August to November) or high-demand names. Current athletes and coaches have limited availability around their competition schedules, so enquire early if you have someone specific in mind. We can often arrange a speaker at short notice, so it's worth asking even if your event is close.
Do your speakers travel outside Auckland?
Yes. Our speakers present throughout New Zealand and Australia. Travel and accommodation are usually charged on top of the speaking fee, and we'll include them in your quote upfront.
How do I book a sport speaker through Essential Talent?
Click "Enquire" on any speaker's profile or call 0508 825 368 with your event date, location, audience size and budget. We'll check availability and come back with a shortlist within one business day.