KEY POINTS:
Our mystery shopper, AUT journalism student Chelsea Burke, visited six of the big banks to check out just how welcoming they were.
National Bank, Queen St
A very large and busy bank, but pleasant to visit. Pot plants, a spaced layout and couches gave it a nice inviting feel. My adviser, Daniel, was professional and helpful. He seemed to know what he was talking about as he discussed accounts available and interest rates.
My rating: 4/5
ANZ, Queen St
I hadn't even managed to get my bearings in ANZ before a gentleman asked if he could help me. I explained I was interested in opening a savings account so he led me to his podium near the front doors and wrote down my name. This felt a bit weird. He warned it may be a bit late for someone to talk to me but invited me to take a seat on the couches.
My rating: 4/5
Westpac, Queen St.
The Westpac branch was quite small. The information desk was clearly signposted so I took my place behind two men chatting to the young teller. Glances and a rapid exit by the two men cued me to think this wasn't a professional discussion. When I told the young man I was interested in an account he looked at me like I had just asked an odd question. I felt like I was taking up his time and quickly left. Not a comfortable experience.
My rating: 2/5
ASB, Queen St
The teller was very helpful and introduced himself. He was keen to know the amount of savings I had and also told me about the term deposits. He also offered me the personal banker's business card and suggested I make an appointment.
My rating: 4/5
BNZ, Wyndham St
For a start this bank was hard to find. Tucked away in the old Wises/Post Office building, the branch smelled new and was very bright when I walked in. The young man didn't seem interested in what I was asking about and made me feel like I should have known it was nearly home time. He asked if I had time to see someone about opening an account, which I took as a gentle fob off.
My rating: 3/5
Kiwibank, Aotea Square
This bank would have to have been the least pleasant design-wise. Tucked into a corner of the Post Office with very visible and informative, but "OTT" signs, it appeared like the Post Office had had a rearrange just to fit them in. "Julian" gave an extremely helpful and thorough overview of savings and business accounts, and pointed out the bank also offered text banking. I was presented with an application form which he asked me to fill out there and then, and a folder containing brochures, deposit slips and Kiwibank business cards.
My rating: 5/5
