The Crusaders have maintained their unbeaten run in the Super rugby competition with a 20‑12 win over the defending champions in Christchurch.

Fly-halves Richie Mouga and Beauden Barrett's boots both sealed 9 points for their teams.

Both teams were locked at 9-all at half-time with tries yet to be scored.

Crusaders skipper Matt Todd crossed over the Hurricanes tryline in the 51st minute to score for the current table leaders.

Lock Scott Barrett limped out of the contest late in the first half with his right ankle swathed in bandages while skipper Todd didn't return after being ordered from the field to have a concussion test.

That's 11 successive victories now for the unbeaten Crusaders and if they can maintain this wild run of success, they will win the NZ conference and secure the precious home run during the playoffs.

The 2002 Crusaders were the last team to win 11 straight victories in the NZ conference.

The Hurricanes, who have suffered their first loss in seven games, remain third in their conference.

The Crusaders play the Chiefs in Fiji next round while the Hurricanes host the Cheetahs in Wellington.

In other results, the Highlanders beat the Bulls 17-10, the Reds beat the Rebels 29-24, the Kings upset the Sharks 35-32, the Blues defeated the Cheetahs 50-32 and the Lions beat the Brumbies 13-6.

The Jaguares will meet Western Force at 9.40 this morning.