And so reaction to the XT network outages turns from outrage to outrageous as a TradeMe seller uses the mobile network's problems as a unique selling point.

Telecommunications Review has been forwarded the link to a TradeMe posting by ‘Tony.Valentic’, who is auctioning an old telephone manufactured by Kellogg in America, and has billed it as “Telecom's latest edition to the XT network”. In the post he notes the phone already has its own number - 027 XT SUX.

“They have gone back to basics so there will be no more problems with receiving texts or calls. Finished in stylish solid oak, you will be the talk of the office with this puppy,” reads the post. “Crank Handle giving you just one very clear ring tone. Full size handset so you can pass it round the table at the pub, giving you that "At home feeling".  Never have to worry .... "where did I leave my phone". Very easy to learn Morse Code text [at least you will get them].

The post has already attracted a number of questions, with most appearing to relish the joke. For example, one prospective buyer asks “This the same make and model that the CEO of Telecom uses?” Answer – “Have it on good authority that he’s on Vodafone !!!!!!!!”

Another queries whether it supports global roaming, and is answered in the affirmative: “Sure does [by cable].You may have to buy it a seat on the plane tho.”

The satirical approach appears to be working – it was posted on Tuesday, and already the auction has passed its reserve price. Hit this link to view the posting.

Yesterday Telecom launched an internal investigation into a complaint made by Wanganui Mayor Michael Laws, who alleges a Telecom contact centre agent sent an abusive text to one of his constituents.

In the meantime Telecom is reporting via its Twitter account that XT customers in New Plymouth and Upper Hutt may be experiencing service issues this morning.