The number of New Zealand bank customers switching accounts nearly doubled in 2012 due to increased advertising by banks in response to ANZ’s dissolution of the National Bank brand, according to research by Australian-based research company Roy Morgan.

The research showed that one in ten New Zealand bank customers switched accounts in 2012, nearly double the 5.9% low in April 2012.

This increase equates to over 100,000 more people switching in 2012 than did in 2011.

According to the research, around 60% of customers from National Bank switched to ANZ.

Kiwibank and Westpac each had around 6% of switching National Bank customers, with ASB 9% and BNZ 4%.

Pip Elliott, general manager, Roy Morgan Research, said banks had been battling to poach customers from each other by promoting the ease and potential benefits of switching.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

He added: "2012 saw a dramatic increase in switching activity, due in large part to ramped up campaigning from all major banks following ANZ’s dissolution of the National Bank brand.

"However, many customers will only switch their bank when it comes to moments of truth, such as the renewal of their mortgage or taking out a new loan."

 

Related articles:

New Zealand m-banking continues to grow

Bank of New Zealand branches to get facelift

Customers call for portable account numbers to make bank switching easier: YouGov