Job losses on cards for BNZ tellers

More than 100 jobs may be at risk in a Bank of New Zealand restructure, the union representing bank staff says.

First Union said the restructure was ‘‘unnecessary’’.

BNZ is proposing a reduction in roles and hours for bank tellers in more than 30 branches nationwide, First Union spokesperson Tali Williams said.

‘‘BNZ is saying the introduction of smart ATMs is making people obsolete,’’ Williams said.

‘‘Many customers still want face-to-face service. You only need to go into any branch to see there are lines out the door, so there’s still a customer need.’’

BNZ spokeswoman Katherine Cornish said she could not go into detail of the changes being discussed.

‘‘In some of our branches … we are looking at the mix of staff and skills they have,’’ she said.

‘‘We need to let the proper consultation process take place with our people in the first instance.’’

She said BNZ had previously spoken about the need to get the balance right as customers became increasingly independent with their day-to-day banking.

‘‘Most are comfortable using things like online banking and our app, and smart ATMs, which can process more transactions and queries.’’

Banking commentator David Tripe, of Massey University, said BNZ’s proposed restructure was part of a reorganisation of the way banks serviced their city-based customers.

But he said he would be surprised if smart ATMs made enough of a difference to allow the bank to make staff redundant as a result.

‘‘It’s a matter of improving the customer service experience, but I wouldn’t expect it to make any difference to the number of staff.’’