Highlanders boss Richard Reid says critics baying for the franchise to be dismantled should think of the ramifications.

There are signs the Super 14 could be in for some panel beating if a revamped competition is proposed to broadcaster News Ltd later this year - and for the Highlanders that could mean trouble.

But Reid says calls to transfer the Dunedin-based franchise to a bigger centre such as Auckland would be counter-productive.

"You would just relocate people. You don't solve anything. If you have the continuity of having the same players, then you can build a team. And that takes about three years."

The New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) is mindful of regenerating interest in the Super 14 with crowd and television viewer numbers dropping. General manager of professional rugby, Neil Sorensen, stated that while it was unlikely, there was potential for the five New Zealand franchise boundaries to be redrawn.

He added the national body did not want to see a franchise axed.

But there has been continued sniping, mostly from Auckland, that the Highlanders should be scratched.

Reid, however, said that would make little sense because it would just mean a new franchise was having to start afresh.

Although most players would be local, he noted it would still have to dip into the draft to recruit a team.

The Highlanders will soon present a paper to the NZRU stating their need to retain the players drafted in this season so new coach Glenn Moore can keep working with the nucleus of his squad.

"Nobody wanted them originally. If we were to have that system, we will have a useful team in two years time," Reid said. "Look at the Western Force, for example. Two years ago they started from scratch and finished last. Now they are up to mid-table.

"I don't see the logic behind it (moving a team). You just tinker with the problem."

The Highlanders have struggled this season, winning just one of their 10 matches and sit 12th in the competition.

Reid noted that while 110 players were listed each weekend because five New Zealand 22-man squads were in action, it did not mean the country's top players were all involved.

Many top players were being left on the bench and could be moved to play elsewhere where they would be in starting 15s.

If there was only one South Island franchise, the Crusaders, its catchment boundaries would be opened up to include the whole island, and it would have to play in several centres rather than just Christchurch.

Reid also backed Moore, saying his future was secure despite winning just one match against the bottom-placed Lions.

"He's absolutely at no risk. I expected a couple of more wins; I think everyone did. But we have seen some progress, the players have held their heads high and not blamed anyone."