They had previously kept a select number of branches open to the public
New Zealand’s banks have shut their Auckland doors as part of the ongoing Alert Level 3 restrictions. This follows advice from the Ministry of Health that banks do not have an exemption to operate under Level 3.
BNZ and Kiwibank both shut down their previously open Auckland branches, and are asking customers to make use of internet banking, smart ATMs and phone support.
“We're sorry to let you know there will be no Auckland BNZ branches open at level 3,” BNZ stated.
“We were advised this morning by the Ministry of Health that banks do not have an exemption to operate under alert level 3 and have to immediately close the nine branches we had open in Auckland to serve customers during this period.”
All major banks had been continuing to operate select branches in Auckland under the Alert Level 3 restrictions, though most were operating a limited number under reduced working hours.
Kiwibank and BNZ both had eleven branches operating in the Auckland area, with BNZ’s branches open for three days a week with limited services.
ANZ, ASB and Westpac were also continuing to operate a select number of branches around the city, with physical distancing measures and controlled entry in place. However, all banks had urged customers only to come to their branches for urgent transactions, and to conduct their banking online where possible.
“Please only visit a branch for urgent transactions that you can’t complete via our other banking channels,” Kiwibank stated. “Remember, there are lots of alternative options to do your banking including online banking, our mobile app, phone banking, as well as a number of ATMs that can accept cash deposits.”
ASB assured customers looking for financial support that they would still be able to access it across all alert levels.
“As we move back to Alert Level 3 in Auckland and Alert Level 2 nationwide, we will continue to support you with financial relief as well as access to our banking services,” ASB said.
“The best way to contact us is by sending a Secure Message in FastNet Classic, or alternatively, you can call us.”
“ASB has looked after our customers in the face of many challenges over the years. We'll continue to do the right thing for you, our people and our communities during the COVID-19 crisis and beyond.”
