Westport branch manager Lisa Clementson’s weekly grocery shop isn’t as fast as it used to be and she never expects a brisk walk down Palmerston Street.
I nearly can’t go anywhere in town without having a quick catchup with an NBS client, about banking, life and everything in between, and I love it.
To me it says people see their NBS branch as a trusted part of their community, and that the relationships we grow are a valued part of their everyday lives.
Maybe that’s part of banking in a small town - but I think it’s what happens when your banking partner has integrity and a strong connection with your community.”
Lisa should know - she was born and raised in Westport and began her career in local banking when she left Buller High School in 1996.
Lisa and her husband would eventually move to Perth, where Lisa continued her banking career, firstly in client services and then lending at a leading credit union.
The couple returned to Westport to raise their family a decade later. Lisa was our branch’s contract cleaner when she applied to join our team, part time.
Since then, Lisa has worked in various roles within our branch. She truly knows our work inside-out.
“I’m proud the Westport branch reflects so much of what makes NBS a trusted and respected leader in our sector and across our communities.
Our team comes to work with the same goal, to be the best for our clients and provide the excellent knowledge, service and support we’re known for.
We don’t just work with numbers - when a client walks in the door we have usually already got their account on the screen and we’re ready to help.”
Lisa loves that NBS supports and sponsors many of the social and sporting groups and organisations that contribute so much to community life across the Buller region.
“You’ll often see me on the sidelines of both my boys’ rugby, football or basketball games and I still get a kick out of seeing the kids with their NBS bags and water bottles.
I think that’s what it’s all about - for me, banking for life means giving back to the community that supports you, to support our community’s future.”
When she’s not at NBS, watching sport or getting her groceries, Lisa enjoys time with her family eating out, beach fishing and exploring “the most beautiful region in New Zealand”.