Kiwibank is committed to supporting its customers transition to faster, safer and cheaper methods of banking following confirmation that it will close seven branches in Balclutha, Gisborne, Matamata, Onehunga, The Palms - Christchurch, Waihī and Waipukurau.
The New Zealand-owned bank said the decision was driven by an increase in customers who wanted to operate in a digital world resulting in a significant decline in the number of people visiting branches.
Today’s announcement followed consultation with its branch teams and feedback from customers and local communities.
General Manager of Retail Geoff Waller said while much of the feedback accepted that customer preferences had largely shifted to the convenience of digital banking, many expressed concerns on behalf of older and more vulnerable customers.
“We are committed to supporting those customers and our people in the branch will be working closely with customers to let them know about the different ways they can bank with us both non-digital and digital.
“Our specialist Digital Angels will continue to provide tailored help to any customer that wants additional support, and we have resources on our website for people to learn at their own pace.
“Through our partnership with Digital Inclusion Alliance Aotearoa, we will also be providing free digital banking workshops in each community before the branch closes.
“While we know this outcome will be disappointing for some, it does give our people and communities certainty and time to transition,” Mr Waller concluded.
Kiwibank will be writing to customers ahead of the closure informing them of the support that is being offered.
Confirmed closure dates are as follows:
- 23 April 2021 - The Palms – Christchurch
- 30 April 2021 - Balclutha
- 4 June 2021 - Waihī
- 25 June 2021 - Waipukurau
- 30 June 2021- Gisborne
- 3 Dec 2021 - Onehunga – Auckland
- 8 Dec 2021 - Matamata
Media contact: Ben Mabon, Head of External Communications 027 288 3263.