A vibrator giveaway that attracted long lines for 10,000 free sex toys came to an abrupt end when New York City told the promoters to pack it up.

The Trojan condom company set up "Pleasure Carts" on Wednesday in two Manhattan neighbourhoods. Nearly 300 people had lined up at each of the hot dog-style carts.

According to the New York Post newspaper, a city representative told the promoters to shut down because of crowds.

One of those on line, Melody Henry, grumbled that Mayor Michael Bloomberg "doesn't want anyone to have fun."

The city says the promotional event could resume at a later date with proper permits.