New Zealand Rugby admit there was merit in allowing the Super Rugby match between the Highlanders and Crusaders match to be played

The game has been cancelled in response to the terror attacks in Christchurch.

NZR Chief Rugby Officer Nigel Cass says paying respects at the ground and then playing the game could have been a way of standing up to the terrorism.

However he says this game involves the Crusaders, who are neighbours and friends of some of the victims.