When Richie McCaw hung up his boots in late 2015 — just three weeks after lifting the Rugby World Cup with the All Blacks at Twickenham — few imagined where he’d go next.
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He walked away from the game as one of its greatest ever players: 148 caps, two world titles, and a legacy of grit, intelligence and quiet leadership.
But instead of drifting into commentary or coaching, McCaw charted a completely new flight path — literally.
From Rugby Fields to Rotor Blades
After retirement, McCaw swapped the black jersey for a pilot’s headset. What began as a hobby during his playing days quickly turned into a full-time profession as a commercial helicopter pilot and instructor with Christchurch Helicopters.
In November 2016, when a 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck Kaikōura and cut off entire communities, McCaw was among those flying rescue missions. He piloted helicopters carrying fire crews, food and medical supplies to isolated areas, embodying the same calm and composure that once defined his performances on the rugby field.
Not long after, on Christmas Day in 2017, he joined firefighting efforts in Canterbury, flying one of several helicopters dispatched to tackle the blaze in Hororata. The image of McCaw — once the fiercest competitor in world rugby — wearing firefighting gear beside his helicopter, summed up his new life perfectly. The battle had changed, but the mindset remained.
Reinvention in Endurance
Physically, McCaw has undergone a dramatic transformation since retirement. Gone is the 110-kilogram frame that once absorbed Test-match collisions; in its place, a lean, endurance-ready build forged through cycling and long-distance racing.
He’s shed around 20 kilograms, swapping gym sessions for mountain climbs and cardio endurance. The competitive drive never left — it simply found a new outlet. From long-distance rides alongside Tour de France champion Geraint Thomas to gruelling multisport events across the South Island, McCaw has redefined what post-rugby fitness can look like.
Earlier this year, he completed a 250-kilometre charity ride from Queenstown to Invercargill, raising funds for Westpac Rescue Helicopters — a cause close to both his heart and his profession.
At Home, The Team Looks Different
Off the bike and away from the cockpit, McCaw’s world revolves around family. He married former Black Sticks hockey star Gemma Flynn in January 2017, and together they’re raising three daughters: Charlotte, born in December 2018; Grace, born in May 2021; and Ella Mae, who arrived in April 2023.
McCaw often says fatherhood has been his most rewarding challenge yet — a new kind of leadership that’s less about barking orders and more about setting quiet examples.
Rugby Still in the Wings
Though he’s stepped back from the spotlight, McCaw’s connection to the sport remains strong. In 2025, he accepted a mentoring role with the All Blacks ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup, working alongside head coach Scott Robertson to pass on the experience and standards that defined his era.
It’s a fitting return for the man who once led New Zealand to unparalleled heights — still guiding, still influencing, just from a different vantage point.
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15. Christian Cullen (New Zealand)
The Paekakariki Express – pure attacking brilliance.
Cullen’s elusive running and flair from fullback made him one of the most exciting players of his generation. McCaw has often praised the “X-factor” players who changed games — and Cullen certainly fits that description.
14. Julian Savea (New Zealand)
Nicknamed “The Bus” for a reason.
Savea bulldozed defenders throughout the 2010s, becoming one of the All Blacks’ most prolific finishers. McCaw has spoken glowingly about the modern winger’s mix of strength and speed.
11. Jonah Lomu (New Zealand)
The sport’s first true global superstar.
Richie McCaw on Lomu:
“When I first became an All Black he was in the team. To play alongside a guy you had watched as a young fella was pretty amazing. He made me look silly in training more than once.
He’s one of the absolute superstars of rugby. If you go somewhere rugby isn’t well known, the one guy they do know is Jonah.”
Lomu’s passing at just 40 was deeply felt by McCaw, who described him as “a legend of the All Blacks and a legend of rugby.”
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13. Ma’a Nonu (New Zealand)
A powerhouse with brains and finesse.
McCaw has long admired Nonu’s development from raw runner to one of the smartest midfielders in the game. His combination with Conrad Smith defined an era of All Blacks dominance.
12. Jonny Wilkinson (England)
The English icon and ultimate professional.
McCaw on Wilkinson:
“He’ll go down as one of the greats of world rugby.”
From his legendary 2003 World Cup-winning drop goal to his relentless preparation, Wilkinson earned universal respect — including from McCaw.
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