Japanese rugby fans donate $60,000 to Christchurch

The Japanese Disaster Relief Team walk past police combing through the rubble of the CTV building. Photo / Sarah Ivey

Japanese rugby fans have raise more than $60,000 for victims of the Christchurch earthquake.

The money was collected at the Japan Cup final, between Suntory Sungoliath and Sanyo Wild Knights, in Tokyo on Sunday.

The Japan Rugby Football Union announced it had collected 3.69 million yen ($60,256) from 14,500 attending the game.

"This last week has been a devastating time for the people of New Zealand and Christchurch," former All Black and now Japan coach John Kirwan told the halftime crowd.

"Many lives have been lost - not only New Zealanders but also Japanese and for this my sympathy goes out to all the families.

"People's spirits have been knocked down and they will struggle at times to see a bright future but New Zealanders and Japanese are similar. We are very resilient and tough. It is easier to pick yourself up when you know people love and care and that is what today is about."

New Zealand Ambassador to Japan, Ian Kennedy, said the donation was appreciated.

The kindness of Japanese rugby fans gave warm encouragement and support, he said.

- NZPA