ASB opens flagship advice centre in North-West Auckland

ASB has recently welcomed the first customers to its new look advice centre in Auckland’s NorthWest retail precinct. As well as expanding the footprint of the centre, better reflecting the needs of the growing community, locals are getting a first full look at the bank’s future branch experience.

ASB West Auckland regional manager Jason Marsh says, “We’re really excited to be welcoming customers into our newly revamped home here in the growing suburb of Westgate. We have been working with customers from across New Zealand to design a simpler, easier banking experience and our NorthWest advice centre is the latest step in that journey.

“For instance, we know more customers are wanting to have conversations with our specialists about home ownership and financial wellbeing, and this has driven the need to incorporate more meeting spaces and a space for seminars and education into the building’s design.”

The NorthWest advice centre will begin holding seminars this month with ASB’s West Auckland Community Banker, Sheree Tiatia hosting weekly Better Banking Workshops over the course of July, to help those in need of a hand with banking basics and how to use ASB’s technology to manage their finances. ASB’s Community Bankers work with customers in areas they’d like additional support such as boosting their financial wellbeing to banking online, either one-on-one or in small groups depending on their needs and in locations convenient to them.

“Another new feature is the Better Banking Support Bar which is an informal space for customers to get quick help and advice, or support from our team with their banking needs. We will be using this space to facilitate digital education sessions, starting late July and customers are invited to drop-in should they wish to learn more about our online banking channels, or would like a demonstration,” says Mr Marsh.

“As well as offering full branch services, we have quick and easy self-service options available at the site including three Smart ATMs and a change machine.

“We have really listened to the research and to what our customers are wanting from their local branch when designing this space, and the result is a warm, vibrant and welcoming area for our customers and our people. NorthWest is the first ASB advice centre to bring all of these new features under one roof and we think people will really enjoy it,” says Mr Marsh.

In addition, the advice centre now incorporates a lounge space ensuring customer have a comfortable and dedicated area to sit when waiting for meetings with ASB’s team of specialists.

The design incorporates local imagery unique to the West Auckland area including the gannet colony at Muriwai beach and Piha’s Lion Rock. The images were captured by Auckland photographer David Straight.

ASB NorthWest employs a team of 16 including two home ownership managers.