A rugby team based in Christchurch are considering changing its name after Friday's deadly shooting.

The Crusaders are the most successful club in the Super Rugby competition and play their home games at Christchurch Stadium.

Their name is based on the Christian soldiers who attempted to conquer Muslim territories in the Middle East in the Middle Ages.

At least 50 people died when Brenton Tarrant opened fire at two mosques on Friday.

Before the attack Tarrant released a manifesto that claimed Western culture was under attack by Muslim and non-white immigrants.

Following the shooting some social media users said the Crusaders name could be considered offensive.

A statement from club chief executive Colin Mansbridge on Sunday night by the Crusaders stated the club understood the concerns about its name.

“For us, the Crusaders name is a reflection of the crusading spirit of this community,” he said.

“What we stand for is the opposite of what happened on Friday; our crusade is one for peace, unity, inclusiveness and community spirit.

“In our view, this is a conversation that we should have and we are taking on board all of the feedback that we are receiving.

“However, we also believe that the time is not right now.”

Those conversations, Mr Mansbridge, would include the local Muslim community.