Prime Minister’s “spread your legs” mug auctioned in Christchurch fundraiser

Chris Lynch
Chris Lynch
May 20, 2023 |

The “Spread Your Legs and Not the Virus” coffee mug, signed by Prime Minister Chris Hipkins is up for sale to help fundraise for a Christchurch Scout group.

In August 2021, at media briefing, Hipkins was updating the country on coronavirus cases , when he urged New Zealanders to socially distance when they go outside to “spread their legs”.

“It is a challenge for people in high density areas to get outside and spread their legs when they are surrounded by other people,” he said.


His slip of the tongue quickly made its way online, with Kiwis sharing memes, TikToks and tweets about the unfortunate phrase. #spreadyourlegs also trended on Twitter.

A week later the then Covid response minister proudly showed off a mug poking fun at his comment.

Now here’s your chance to own a piece of history.

All profits from the auction will go towards getting Scouts from Gordon Scout Group to Jamboree in Hamilton.

The mug was donated to the group by the Prime Minister’s Office.

The mug is being auctioned on Trade Me


Chris Lynch
Chris Lynch

Chris Lynch is a journalist, videographer and content producer, broadcasting from his independent news and production company in Christchurch, New Zealand. If you have a news tip or are interested in video content, email [email protected]

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