SBS to move to bigger, more central branch in Hamilton

Southland-based former building society SBS Bank has announced plans to move to a bigger and more central branch in Hamilton as the newly incorporated bank expands away from its Invercargill base. SBS' Hamilton branch will move from its current location in the Novotel Building at 354 Victoria Street Victoria Street to the corner of Victoria St and Bryce St into the Tainui-owned Jean Jones building, which is 120 square metres bigger. The move is expected from July. SBS Bank has been operating its branch in Hamilton since December 2000 and said it needed bigger premises to cater for more customers. SBS Bank Hamilton manager Nicki Bennett told interest.co.nz there was the option to open smaller branches or focus on one and do it well. "It's a new look, not like going into a bank but like going into a lounge," Bennett said. A mocked up picture of the new branch is displayed to the left. "Features of the additional space will include a larger waiting area with comfy couches, additional interview rooms for personal appointments, secure teller counters, increased storage, fresh new décor and, of course, the usual fantastic SBS Bank service and hot coffee waiting for anyone who pops in," Bennett said.