Gemma Flynn on relationship with Richie McCaw: 'We don't think we're different'

All Blacks legend Richie McCaw and his fiance, Black Sticks star Gemma Flynn. Photo / Twitter

Black Sticks star Gemma Flynn has praised family and friends for keeping her and her All Blacks-legend fiance, Richie McCaw, grounded.

In an exclusive interview with Woman's Day, Flynn said she prioritised being a good person over being a good athlete.

"The main thing for me is to stay true to who I am and remain authentic," she told Woman's Day.

"With Rich as well, we don't think we're different than anyone else. We're lucky in that we have amazing friends and family who keep us happy and grounded."

I've found someone and we love each other, but I know not all fairy tales work out like that.

Gemma Flynn

Flynn also revealed her resolve to pursue her own goals.

"You've always got to have something of your own that makes you happy...

"I've found someone and we love each other, but I know not all fairy tales work out like that."

The 26-year-old is training for the Rio de Janeiro Olympics which the Black Sticks are hoping to come away from with gold medals.

Meanwhile, Flynn will have her first taste of being on the big screen in September when Chasing Great, a documentary about McCaw's life, is released in cinemas.

Speaking to Woman's Day, Flynn said part of her didn't want to be in it, but it was difficult not to be in a film documenting the life of her beloved fiance.