Richie McCaw's new challenge

Richie McCaw with two members of his Godzone Race Team. Photo / Facebook

Retired All Black captain Richie McCaw is scaling new heights as he steps up training for an epic endurance race.

McCaw is lining up for the 550km event as a member of the Cure Kids team alongside New Zealand Rugby Players' Association chief executive Rob Nichol, Wanaka adventure racer Sarah Fairmaid and former Blues player Ben Meyer.

McCaw, fresh off the back of the Rugby World Cup success, is relishing his latest challenge, describing the five-day adventure race as a "true test of grit, determination and resilience".

A smiling McCaw posted a picture of a recent training run taken from the summit of Mt Roy, a 1578m peak behind Wanaka.

"Fantastic views from the top of Mt Roy! Three of the four of my Godzone Race Team."

The Mt Roy track is described as a very strenuous hike uphill.

The Godzone endurance race is the largest and most technically challenging expedition race in the world.

Teams navigate some of the country's most spectacular scenery and wilderness using only a map and a compass.

Each team member must stay within 100m of each other while tramping, climbing, mountain biking, kayaking and rafting.

Teams have up to seven days to complete the challenge.

It will take place in the Tasman district in early April.