Australian bank Westpac is closing 3 branches in Christchurch and one each in Auckland and Wellington. A Westpac spokesperson confirmed 5 branches would be closing in February 2018 due to a change in the way the customers use banking facilities, and following consultation with affected staff. He added that where possible, the bank plans to retain a banking solution for customers in those locations, such as an ATM, and it will be using its local digital ambassadors to work alongside community groups and those that need help gaining confidence with alternative ways of banking. A majority of the affected staff would be transferred to other branches, he said. The bank had in 2016 decided to close 19 branches across the country.
