Former All Blacks captain Richie McCaw and his wife former Black Stick Gemma McCaw have announced on social media they are leaving Christchurch to live in Wānaka.
The McCaws, who have three children — all girls — have some connection with the town, having married in Wānaka in 2017, under a security blanket which matched any Donald Trump outing.
The couple drew up plans to build a house in Hawea Flat last year though it is unclear whether they will be moving into this house or to another property.
McCaw will join his old coach in moving to Wānaka. Former All Blacks coach Steve Hansen also has a property in the town and spends considerable time in the area.
Rugby stars Ben Smith and Damian McKenzie also have property there.
Since retiring from playing in 2015 after winning the Rugby World Cup for a second time, McCaw has mixed the business of flying helicopters with appearances at rugby tournaments, and other business ventures around the world.
Gemma McCaw said in a social media post over the weekend it was time to say goodbye to Christchurch as "we embark on a new adventure in Wānaka".
"For the past 10 years, this city has been my home. It’s where we welcomed our three beautiful girls into the world, and where I arrived knowing only a handful of people and now leave with lifelong friends.
"We are very excited about this move down south and a lifestyle full of adventure that awaits.
"It’s everything we’ve dreamed of for raising our girls, and we can’t wait to live in one of the most beautiful places in the world."
