ANZ makes NZ independent ATM network a reality

A full-fledged independent ATM network is set to become a reality in New Zealand after ANZ National agreed to allow its customers to access independent ATMs, says New Zealand ATM Services.

New Zealand ATM Services is one of two companies, the other being ATM Plus, operating independent ATMs in the country. Customers Limited owns a 34 per cent stake in NZATMS.

With this deal, about 85 per cent of cards on issue in New Zealand will be able to access independent ATMs.

Of 15 per cent of bank customers who cannot use independent ATMs at the moment most are customers of ASB, though discussions with ASB are underway.

New Zealand ATM Services said it plans to roll out ATMs to sites where it already has a contract. It aims to install over 600 ATMs prior to the Rugby World Cup, in September.

Independent ATMs make up around half of Australia's ATMs, of over 28,500. The New Zealand market has the potential to support up to 2500 independent ATMs.