Participants of the challenging GODZone race say they did not stop for sleep last night -- but they are defiant in the belief that the "gnarly" conditions are all part of the fun.
The rain that smattered the region prevented many of them hunkering down for a nap last night, but they say they're hopeful of "a couple of hours" of shuteye tonight.
However former All Black captain Richie McCaw, GODZone's most high-profile participant, is taking a back seat within his team -- and he's relishing the opportunity to surrender leadership to someone else.
"It's completely different you know, in a good way. It’s actually quite refreshing to be the guy focusing on your new learning," he said.
"Hopefully I can contribute to the team, we'll all be taking turns navigating, for example. Being the new boy is actually quite cool."
McCaw says he has enjoyed the stage -- but admits he didn't do a lot of talking, despite teammate Sarah Fairmaid doing her best to spark conversation.
The group arrived in Wairoa Gorge at 2am this morning, and are today embarking on a 52km journey through the Red Hills – and McCaw says he's enjoying the challenge.
"[The most recent stage] was pretty good, pretty good. There were some good hill climbs in there," he said.
This year's competitors have already raised $293,000 for Cure Kids, who will use the funds in a bid to improve child health.
Newshub.
