PAPATOETOE, New Zealand- Aotearoa Credit Union here said it is launching the world’s first Māori language ATM as part of a joint venture with a marae-based health, social services and education provider in the Waikato, N.Z.
A marae is a communal or sacred place that serves religious and social purposes in Polynesian cultures.
The credit union said the move is part of a long-term strategy to get closer to its membership, which is why it plans to open what it calls a “concept” branch in association with Te Kohao Health on Dec. 8. The effort will include a number of co-branded products, such as debit cards, with Te Kohao Health.
Te Kohao Health has more than100 staff and 8,000 clients throughout the Waikato, N.Z. region to whom financial services will be extended.
The Māori King, Kiingi Tuheitia, will attend the official opening along with Māori Party co-leader Marama Fox.