Public begs for NZ Post to change its mind
The response has been overwhelming. Now it’s a case of getting someone to listen.
Mana MP Kris Faafoi’s office has received more than 800 replies to a survey he sent out when he heard the PostShop was to be downscaled and services shifted from the premises at 99 Mana Esplanade.
New Zealand Post has not yet entered into negotiations to merge with an existing business, as is happening in other parts of the country.
Faafoi said the number of replies was hugely pleasing.
The survey respondents were asked whether they wanted the PostShop to remain open, how often they used it and what services they used most.
More than 95 per cent wanted Mana PostShop to stay as it is, Faafoi said.
‘‘It’s a great response. What I’m getting is that the elderly rely on the services in Mana and there are transport issues at play if it’s moved. It’s not just any old shop; it’s very busy,’’ he said.
‘‘I’m aware that New Zealand Post is changing, but they need to be more aware of the communities they operate in.’’
Faafoi said merging the PostShop with an existing business was untenable, owing to the volume of people through the door.
Jon Andrews, New Zealand Post general manager store network, said the public would be kept informed during the merger process.
He said staff at Mana PostShop had been answering several queries from residents.
‘‘Some people have got the wrong end of the stick and think we’re closing and not providing services any more,’’ he said.
‘‘The Mana PostShop will remain where it is until we find a suitable business to take over both postal and banking services.’’
Andrews said it was too early to say if jobs would be lost and that it could take months to find a business partner.
Faafoi said he would ask for a meeting with New Zealand Post executives in the coming weeks with the message that the Mana store should remain as it is. Porirua Mayor Nick Leggett will likely join him.
Leggett said New Zealand Post had a case to answer.
‘‘I’m blown away by the response Kris has received and it says a lot,’’ Leggett said. ‘‘I’m appalled at New Zealand Post’s handling of this.
‘‘They have told people what is to happen. This is an example of how not to consult.
‘‘I don’t champion lost causes and I’m convinced we can secure a higher level of postal and banking services in Mana and the city centre.’’
Andrews said New Zealand Post had not heard from Leggett or Faafoi, but would be happy to meet them to discuss concerns.