Richie McCaw is determined to focus on matters on the pitch rather than the emotion of a potential Christchurch farewell in New Zealand's Rugby Championship opener against Argentina.

Captain McCaw will line-up for what could be his final appearance at AMI Stadium on Friday.

The flanker is expected to retire after the Rugby World Cup later this year, but wants to keep his emotions in check and ensure a strong start to the Rugby Championship for the All Blacks.

"I don't want to get caught up too much in it," McCaw said.

"I want to play well for the team, I want the team to play well with what's a big year and I'm just excited about that rather than worrying about whether I get to play here again.

"If you get too wound up in that, I think that takes your focus away from what you need to do.

"The best thing you can do is personally play well and the team play well and then you can have a smile afterwards and reflect a wee bit."