Strange Trade Me listings inspired by coronavirus

Quirky T-shirts are part of the offering on the auction site. Photo: Trade Me
Quirky T-shirts are part of the offering on the auction site. Photo: Trade Me
"No hug" labelled T-shirts are among the coronavirus-inspired items listed on Trade Me as the deadly virus continues to spread around the world.

With health authorities advising people to limit or avoid physical contact with anyone who is sick, the possibly more subtle way of avoiding those still keen on coming in for a hug might be to wear one of these shirts.

"It can be awkward telling people to keep their distance," the listing description reads.

"We've designed a few light-hearted T-shirts to help remind you and others you're meeting with to reduce touching and to try to keep more distance when talking.

"Help prevent spread of cold/ flu and coronavirus."

Among the shirts up for grabs on the auction site is one with the words: "No hug. No kiss. All care."

Another T-shirt says: "For display purposes only. Do not touch." While another has a somewhat more aggressive message: "Back off!"

Coronavirus Trade Me listings are a common sight now. Photo: Trade Me
Coronavirus Trade Me listings are a common sight now. Photo: Trade Me
Other sellers have put together emergency packs and even a "coronavirus combo" made up of a "slightly used toilet roll" and used face mask.

"Slightly used toilet roll - two sheets missing - and matching [white] lightweight, one size fits all face mask," the description reads.

"If the auction fails to meet reserve, we will not be re-listing as we have already had international expressions of interest - especially from three Australian ladies who are extremely interested."

Although it appears the auction is somewhat of a joke, the starting bid is placed at $19.99 and the seller says all proceeds will go to the SPCA.

"The animal one, not the society of panicking coronavirus alarmists," the seller quips.

Meanwhile, the "coronavirus emergency pack" includes three face masks, plastic gloves, a hand sanitiser, Kleenex wipes and a four-pack Cotton Soft pack of toilet paper.

In the questions section, one potential buyer has simply commented: "Wow."

The bids on that auction have so far reached $30.