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Darren | NZ PACKAGING, RICHMOND

Meet Darren

NBS business and personal banking client

Pictured: Darren Friend | NZ Packaging | NBS personal and business banking client

I was recommended to contact NBS by a friend when I told him about our plan to start our own business. My first meeting with the Richmond branch manager was a handshake exchanged over a cup of coffee. Since then, NBS has seamlessly facilitated our business endeavours, providing comprehensive banking solutions for both our business and personal banking. Their support extends beyond business transactions, encompassing our personal banking needs from everyday accounts to term investments.

I am a proud Nelsonian, born and bred, with over two decades of experience in the packaging industry. We noticed a gap in the market where companies were seeking companies who provided good service and had excellent product knowledge. Recognising this, my wife, Janine, and I started our own business in 2022 to meet this growing need. We've since become the master distributor for Cordstrap in New Zealand and the South Island agent for other brands.  

Today, we import containers of products from multiple countries serving a diverse customer base across New Zealand as well as having four distributors around the country.  

When starting out, we approached our longstanding big bank of 30 years, but they were unwilling to provide loans to new businesses or even have a meeting.  

I was recommended to contact NBS by a friend when I told him about our plan to start our own business. My first meeting with the Richmond branch manager was a handshake exchanged over a cup of coffee. Since then, NBS has seamlessly facilitated our business endeavours, providing comprehensive banking solutions for both our business and personal banking. Their support extends beyond business transactions, encompassing our personal banking needs from everyday accounts to term investments. 

What sets NBS apart is their genuine approach to client relationships. At the NBS branch in Richmond, we're not just a number; we're valued partners.

The team's blend of approachability and professionalism creates an environment where every interaction is easy and personal. It's this personalised touch that resonates with local businesses, fostering a sense of community and collaboration that you just don’t feel from the big banks. 

NBS' commitment to our community is exemplary. In addition to backing local sports teams, their support extends to vital services like the rescue helicopter and Nelson Tasman Hospice, aligning perfectly with our passion for the outdoors and community wellbeing. 

Our relationship with NBS embodies the spirit of 'banking for life', where they provide support to us, and, in turn, we stand by them. This is a relationship built on trust, reliability and shared values. 

NBS is the issuer of these products. Our Product Disclosure Statement is available online and in local branches. Terms and conditions apply to all products and fees may apply. Lending criteria applies to loan products. NBS is not a registered bank.


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