BNZ has announced it will permanently close its Upper Riccarton branch in Christchurch next month, citing a growing shift toward online and self service banking.

The branch, located at the Bush Inn Centre on the corner of Waimairi and Riccarton Roads, will close on 10 April.

In an email sent to customers, BNZ said changing banking habits had driven the decision.

“With more customers choosing to bank online and use other self serve options, we’ve made the decision to close our Upper Riccarton branch,” the bank said.

BNZ said the closure would not affect customers’ accounts or account numbers and customers would not need to take any action.

The bank pointed customers to its Riccarton Mall branch, which was less than 3km away.

BNZ said several other branches remained available across Christchurch, including locations on Cashel Street, Barrington and Papanui.

BNZ said customers who are not already using Internet Banking can set it up from their device using step by step instructions or visit a branch for assistance.

“We’re committed to serving our Christchurch customers brilliantly and look forward to seeing you at one of our BNZ branches across the city,” the bank said.