Rugby:All Blacks legend Jonah Lomu admits a decision to move World Cup games away from earthquake-hit Christchurch "could be the worst thing they could do".

Last month’s quake has claimed 166 lives with many people still missing, while causing untold damage across Christchurch. Concerns about the city’s ability to stage matches - and host supporters - continue to grow as the extent of the damage is revealed.

Christchurch is scheduled to host five pool matches and two quarter-finals and there have even been suggestions the matches could be moved outside New Zealand.

“It could be the worst thing they could do,” said Lomu. “When you’re in a place like that, where they are so mad about rugby, it’s something for them to look forward to.”

Lomu warned against any rash decisions but also admitted he does not want the city to host matches if it is not ready.

“I also think that it is too early for anybody to make any decisions like that. Hopefully they don’t take games away but at the same time we’ve got to think about what the best outcome is for everybody as well.

“Kiwis are resilient, especially Cantabrians, and hearts go out to everybody that was lost there and everybody else.

“We support them, we’re there for them whatever the outcome is, and I’m sure the New Zealand Government and New Zealand itself will get behind it.”