New Zealand Rugby has confirmed this weekend's Super Rugby fixtures will go ahead as planned, despite the growing concerns around the rapid spread of coronavirus.
The NZR consulted with SANZAAR, Eden Park, FMG Stadium and the Ministry of Health
on Friday afternoon, before confirming that the round seven matches will continue as normal.
The games that were in question are the Chiefs v Hurricanes match at FMG Stadium Waikato in Hamilton tonight, and the Blues v Lions match at Eden Park on Saturday.
"We are closely monitoring what’s happening in other sporting codes around the world but are taking our advice from the New Zealand Government," a statement said.
"The safety of our players, fans and stakeholders is our paramount consideration and we will continue to work closely with the New Zealand Government, SANZAAR, and our Investec Super Rugby clubs to monitor what is a fast-moving situation.
"We advise any rugby fans who are feeling unwell to follow Ministry of Health guidelines and stay away from mass gatherings."
Rugby Australia is also meeting on Friday afternoon to discuss the possibility of canncelling this weekend's games.
The Crusaders are schedules to play the Sunwolves in Brisbane on Saturday, a fixture shifted from Tokyo because of the outbreak of Covid-19.
The Reds host the Bulls at Suncorp Stadium following the Crusaders v Sunwolves clash in a double-header.
