Bank confirms June close for Waih¯ı branch

Kiwibank heard 22 submissions about the Waih¯ı branch closure from residents concerned about the fast changes to banking and impact on elderly and vulnerable customers, but the ‘people’s bank’ is closing its doors on June 4.

“While we appreciate this will be disappointing news for some in the community, we’d like to reiterate Kiwibank is committed to supporting customers through the transition,” retail general manager Geoff Waller said.

“Kiwibank recognises change is difficult for some and we will continue to make it a priority to support customers to use alternative ways of banking, both digital and non-digital.

“Between now and when the branch closes, our people in the branch will be working closely with customers to let them know about the other ways they can bank with us.”

Coromandel MP Scott Simpson said Kiwibank’s decision to close its branch in Waihi confirms that the ‘people’s bank’ is no more.

“Kiwibank was created as an alternative to foreign commercial banks. Its brand was that it was owned and run by New Zealanders. There is no mistaking that today’s decision puts pay to that once and for all.”

“There was a period for public consultation, but this was little more than rubber-stamping decision.

The bank said it has “specialist Digital Angels” to help customers and is referring bankers to resources on its website.

“In addition, through our partnership with Digital Inclusion Alliance Aotearoa, we will be providing free digital banking workshops in Waih¯ı before the branch closes.

“We appreciate that some business customers may be impacted.

“We’ll be discussing with them how some of their needs such as cash collection could be met by other providers,” the bank said.

On job losses, the bank was “working through options” prior to closure, including redeployment opportunities.

Kiwibank intends to retain its ATM in the area and upgraded it to allow deposits to be made.

Simpson said he did not believe it was enough to help elderly and vulnerable customers on the Coromandel.

“Despite Kiwibank’s efforts to help customers transition to digital banking, I’m not satisfied that this will be successful. Customers have already had adequate time to be online but those that haven’t taken up that option simply prefer to do their banking in person.’

“It’s another blow to rural and provincial communities and something that big corporates are doing at pace,” Simpson said.

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