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Leading financial institution Westpac New Zealand, which also provides insurance, has announced it is moving back into the heart of the Christchurch business district in The Terrace on June 05.
According to Westpac NZ chief executive David McLean, the journey back to the city centre has been a much-anticipated homecoming for those that had to move out so suddenly after the February 2011 earthquake
“Situated in what we feel is the best position in the city, with views over the Avon River, the new branch and office will offer our staff and customers the best of a natural setting combined with the business activity that surrounds The Terrace,” he noted.
Westpac will occupy four floors of the five-storey building and its flagship branch, Christchurch Central, will be located on the ground floor. A total of 114 staff will be moving into the new branch and office.
Westpac also said The Terrace sits on rolling foundations that will move during an earthquake, making it a resilient and safe building. It is 5-Green Star rated and has been designed to minimise the carbon footprint. Moreover, the bank said, the new environment will minimise stress and promote greater overall health and wellbeing for its staff.
“After years of disruptions and uncertainty in Christchurch following the earthquakes and aftershocks, the safety of our staff and customers has been a big consideration for us,” McLean added. “We’re therefore pleased to see the culmination of years of hard work and planning and we’re confident that our new branch and offices will be enjoyed by all.”
