Air New Zealand brand ambassador and former All Blacks’ captain Richie McCaw joined former Pumas’ captain, Agustin Pichot, in Buenos Aires today to host a rugby event for local Argentinian school children.
McCaw is in Argentina to celebrate Air New Zealand’s new three times a week direct service between Auckland and Buenos Aires and today shared his love for rugby with a group of around 60 junior players and other fans in a public square in front of the impressive Teatro Colon in the heart of the city.
Air New Zealand General Manager South America Alex Obaditch says the event demonstrated the two nations’ passion for rugby.
“Richie McCaw has been an Air New Zealand ambassador since 2010. Fresh from the All Blacks recent triumph and the announcement of his retirement from professional rugby it’s great to have Richie along with us in Argentina to highlight our new direct service between Auckland and Buenos Aires”
Alex Obaditch, General Manager, Air New Zealand, South America
“We’re confident it will bring our countries closer together and further strengthen the links we already enjoy through rugby and education to open up new opportunities in tourism and trade.”
McCaw says he has always loved visiting Argentina and has fond memories of playing rugby there.
Air New Zealand Chief Strategy, Networks & Alliances Officer Stephen Jones with airline ambassador Richie McCaw and Cabin Crew.
“Having been part of Air New Zealand’s announcement last December for this new route, I’m excited to be here in Buenos Aires to celebrate the first direct flight that will save travellers precious time. It was great to have the opportunity to join Gus and some aspiring future rugby players.”
Agustin Pichot, who featured alongside McCaw in Air New Zealand’s most recent Men in Black Safety Defenders safety video, says the young Argentinian rugby enthusiasts were very excited to see one of their heroes.
“I thoroughly enjoyed teaming up with world champion Richie McCaw and Air New Zealand today to share our love of rugby. I’m sure the players will remember this day for a very long time.”