Independent ATM operators lure ANZ and maybe ASB

ANZ National may finally be ready to join the independent ATM network in New Zealand, with a deal likely to signed as early as today.

The deal would mean owners of over 300 ATMs across the country would finally have their cash machines networked with those of all the banks. The new arrangements could be in place by the end of March.

ANZ National and ASB were the two major banks resisting allowing independent ATM owners to join their networks.  

While ANZ had indicated its willingness to continue discussions few months ago, ASB was reported to be pretty adamant in its stance, saying there was minimal demand from its customers for independent ATMs.

But there are some indications ASB may now be willing to reconsider its stance, with a meeting with stakeholders of independent ATM providers scheduled for this week.

Two independent ATM providers, NZ ATM Ltd and ATM Plus Ltd, joined hands with electronic payment services' provider, Paymark, to introduce independent ATMs into New Zealand in April 2008. By the end of a year they had introduced 284 ATMs.