Crusaders rugby

In a statement issued to NZME, Crusaders CEO Colin Mansbridge said cutting the jobs was an incredibly difficult process.

“We will not be commenting further as good people have been affected and their individual employment matters are private,” Mansbridge said.

“We would, however, like to acknowledge the immense contribution to our club from these individuals. This has been an incredibly painful and difficult process for those involved and we hope you will respect their privacy." 

The gathering, which included All Black first five Richie Mo'unga, is against the rules set out by the New Zealand government in relation to coronavirus lockdown.

In a statement the Crusaders said:

The Crusaders are aware of some of our players training at Malvern Park in Christchurch today (Monday).

Management have spoken with the players involved, all of whom live within walking distance of Malvern Park.