All apart from Barty, who played last year, will be lining up on the course with other amateurs — this is the only national Open in the world played in a pro-am format.
Two-time Rugby World Cup champion McCaw says he’s thrilled to be part of the Open.
"Golf has always been a sport I love, and to be able to play alongside the professionals as they duke it out for our national title is really exciting.
"While my heart lies in rugby, I’ve always had a deep appreciation for golf, and I’m really looking forward to supporting this incredible tournament."
Former Grand Slam champion, Barty, from Australia, who claimed 15 titles, says she had "an amazing experience" last year.
"I really connected with the tournament, and being in Queenstown is always special.
"The hospitality and friendliness of everyone involved is second to none.
"While I won’t be teeing it up this year, I am thrilled to be coming back to one of the favourite sporting events, spending time with volunteers and the incredible people who bring this event together."
Returning ambassador, former Australian cricket great Ricky Ponting, will be back for his eighth NZ Open pro-am, which he calls his "favourite week of the year".
"It’s always a privilege to be invited back, and I know the ambassadors feel the same way.
"Millbrook is such a beautiful place to host the tournament, which keeps getting better every year."
Other familiar returnees are former NZ cricket captain Stephen Fleming, nowadays a top T20 coach, ex-All Blacks star and World Cup champion Israel Dagg, and ‘double All Black’ Jeff Wilson.
Rounding out the lineup are NZ’s leading rally driver Hayden Paddon and four-time National Basketball League champion Tom Abercrombie.
NZ Open chairman John Hart says they’re incredibly proud to have assembled "a remarkable group of ambassadors".
"They bring not only diverse backgrounds and international appeal to the tournament, which helps us engage with a wide audience, but their love of golf aligns perfectly with the NZ Open."
