The central bank is working with industry and emergency response to support the cash system
The Reserve Bank has been working with commercial banks, cash service and security companies, ATM providers, and maintenance firms to restore cash services in regions affected by Cyclone Gabrielle.
Ian Woolford, director of money and cash, said that in this very difficult time for many people, RBNZ is doing everything possible, in cooperation with industry and emergency response, to support the cash system.
“There are now working ATMs in Northland, on the Coromandel Peninsula, and in Hawke’s Bay,” Woolford said. “ATMs may still occasionally shut down if there is a power or data interruption but will automatically restart when service returns.
“Retailers are also able to offer cash outs if they have working EFTPOS and surplus cash available. There is no shortage of cash for working ATMs or need to withdraw more than you need for a few days.”
In Wairoa and Tairāwhiti/Gisborne where power, data, and road access are still missing or severely limited, the RBNZ leader said the industry is working with emergency management authorities to restore whatever they can or set up temporary solutions.
“Banks tell us that as they reopen branches they will be prioritising the needs of vulnerable customers,” Woolford said. “Retailers and other businesses with cash needs should also contact their bank.”
The central bank said it is putting together a list of working ATMs in the cyclone-hit areas. Once available, the list will be published on its website, shared through social media, and distributed to the media and emergency response operations.
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