The Crusaders' Board met on Wednesday and confirmed that their Round 16 Super Rugby derby against the Hurricanes will be staged at Nelson's Trafalgar Park.

The Crusaders are unable to hold the game at their home venue of AMI Stadium in Christchurch because it is being used for the FIFA Under 20 World Cup, so the Board has been working through a process to identify the best alternative option.

CEO Hamish Riach said, “We are all pleased that after a long and thorough process, including discussions with our players and coaches, and representatives of the relevant venues, a decision has now been reached and we are excited to be taking this game to Nelson.

“We have played in Nelson a number of times before and our supporters from the uppermost part of the Crusaders catchment area are always most welcoming. We know it will be a fantastic occasion and it is great to be able to now get on with preparing for that match and making it something special for our fans.

“As has been previously reported, Suva was another venue we considered for this game. While there were a number of compelling aspects to that option, on balance and taking into account a wide range of pros and cons for each venue, we are really happy to confirm that the game will be played at Trafalgar Park in Nelson.”