Westpac relocates to original site in Levuka

Substantial investment to look like Levuka on the outside but Suva on the inside

MARAIA VULA
Levuka
Westpac Fiji’s link with Levuka dates back more than a century which is probably the reason it has not abandoned its customers.
In fact, Westpac has just relocated its Levuka branch restoring it to its original site to when it was opened in 1909. It renamed the building to the bank’s initial name – Bank of New South Wales. This is in order to give its loyal customers the best and up-to-date service.
In order to celebrate this memorable occasion, Westpac held a cocktail event on Friday night at the new site in Beach Street in Levuka. Westpac Fiji has got customers in Levuka dated back by four generations of families who have been part of the bank since it opened in Levuka in 1909.
Westpac Fiji general manager, Adrian Hughes, said to loyal customers who supported the bank for years and beyond: “You deserve this branch because you have been supporting us for a long time.
“Our mission/goal is to be one of the greatest companies helping our customers, staff and communities to prosper and grow.
“And to bring this mission to life, it’s important we respect the rich traditions of Fiji and indeed of Levuka.”
Mr Hughes said although they are the only bank in Levuka, this did not meant they can cut corners with customers.
“Its all the more reasons to give customers a bank that they deserve,” he said.
“It was our mission when we first started planning the refurbishment of this branch to give customers a branch which they can be proud of.”

Substantial investment
Bank projects and properties manager Bernadette Wakeham said refurbishment works began on December 16 and was completed by Friday morning.
The branch has five staff and houses a branch manager office, three teller booths, one customer care booth and one ATM machine.

Impact of technology
Event chief guest Robin Yarrow highlighted the relocated and refurbished branch has opened at a time when technology has a major impact on how banking is being undertaken.
“Online banking, ATMs, EFTPOS, mobile wallets and bank agents are transforming the banking business,” he said.
“In some cases, bank branches are being closed as an economic measure. It is therefore gratifying that Westpac has chosen to remain in this historic town of Levuka.
“This responsible attitude is most commendable also for the reason that it sends out a very positive message of confidence in Levuka.
“And also in terms of the preservation and adapted reuse of heritage buildings. I hope it will encourage and inspire other owners of listed buildings in Levuka.”
Building owner Kinman Fong is a proud bank customer.
Mr Fong said: “We are happy and excited about Westpac’s achievements and having faith in this town but most importantly they can look after our property.”
Feedback: maraia.vula@fijisun.com.fj
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