9 June 2015

Westpac needs to keep face with Te Tairāwhiti

"The proposed closure of the only bank from Ōpōtiki to Gisborne in Ruatorea will have a massive impact on the East Coast community,” says Māori Party Co-leader Marama Fox, following a community meeting held last night.

"The proposed loss of the Westpac Bank in Ruatorea isn’t just about losing everyday access to banking, it’s about losing a personal relationship to the bank and its people.

"The loyalty, developed over many years and generations, is significant," says Mrs Fox. "We're talking about long-standing relationships with more than 50 marae, 12 schools, multiple businesses and land owners. The bank needs to reciprocate that loyalty.

"What I know about this region is that it's mainly kaumatua who are affected – elderly people who are telling us that for their entire lives they have used over the counter banking, and online banking is not a viable option for them.”

Mrs Fox agrees that keeping the bank open is the best option. However, should Westpac decide to continue with the closure, she will work with Ikaroa Rawhiti MP Meka Whaitiri to look at other options.

“Our first option is to listen to the people and we will pursue other options at their request if this does not work.”

ends

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