NZ Catholic is aware that several of our subscribers have been used to paying their subscriptions using Kiwibank cheques.
From February 28, customers of Kiwibank will no longer be able to write or deposit cheques.
Kiwibank announced this change in May last year, citing the fact that fewer than one per cent of Kiwibank payments are now made by cheque and that a tipping point had been reached.
To NZ Catholic’s knowledge, no other major bank in New Zealand has announced a similar move concerning cheques.
Some customers might have been helped by the nine-month transition measures Kiwibank adopted last year. Among these measures are:
- Partnering with Stepping UP to offer a free digital bankingcourse in libraries and community centres throughout the country.
- Enabling this free digital banking course to be provided through Stepping Up’s mobile training bus DORA (Digital On-Road Access) that is travelling all around the country (including remote areas).
- Providing specially trained “digital angels” – in 77 branches throughout the country – who are working either one-on-one or in groups with customers to introduce them to safer and lower cost banking options.
The digital angels have been attending local clubs, associations and retirement villages to also provide this same support to large groups. Kiwibank has also been encouraging people to use credit cards more.
The bank’s website has more information.
Subscribers to NZ Catholic, who usually pay using a Kiwibank cheque, can call our office on 09 360-3067 if they have any concerns going forward.
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