The red and black merino-blend "Aftersocks" – featuring a seismograph trace in place of one of the stripes – were the idea of Christchurch resident Justine Ottey.

She contacted Rural Women about putting the idea into action, and early this week, with the help of Ashburton's New Zealand Sock Company and a website designed by Ottey's sister Jo, they went on sale.

"The socks are manufactured in Ashburton by a family-owned company, so we're supporting Canterbury in a very practical way, as well as donating all profits to the Christchurch Mayoral Fund," says RWNZ president Liz Evans.

RWNZ communications officer Jackie Edkins told Rural News the socks have "gone absolutely viral on Facebook.

She says the NZ Sock Company has been struggling to keep up with demand, 1500 pairs having been ordered in just three days.

"They've had to order a whole 3000 more socks-worth of yarn. They're selling out as fast as they can make them."

Apparently sourcing sufficient red merino wool could become a problem so a design change to maybe a black stock with a simple red trace may be required.

Five MPs got behind the initiative yesterday, donning Aftersocks for a photo call on the steps of Parliament.

"I think it's been an astonishing initiative from Rural Women and everyone says it is so innovative," said National list MP Jackie Blue.

"I know [Rural Women] are going to make a lot of money for Canterbury."

Fellow MPs Tim Macindoe (Hamilton West), Jo Goodhew (Rangitata), Carol Beaumont and Kevin Hague completed the line-up.

The socks are $20/pair plus post and packing. Order on www.aftersocks.co.nz.