NEW BUSINESS ADDITION

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 2, Issue 134, 11 March 1940, Page 4

NEW BUSINESS ADDITION

WITH the completion of the new Union Bank of Australia. Whakatane has added yet another important business asset to its commercial section. The bank occupies an important corner which will always be situated in the heart of the town. The distinction is deserved as the Bank is one which has grown with the community and by the decision of its directors to build new and imposing premises has given expression to the confidence and faith which it has long cherished for the centre, destined to become one of the most important in the Bay of Plenty. Thirty four years ago the first unpretentious branch was opened in the small building now occupied by Mr. R. F. Smith, solicitor. These premises were vacated in 1912, for the wooden building on the corner, which was demolished last year to make room for the present modern structure. The older building served faithfully as the Bank's headquarters for twenty eight years, a period which has been remarkable for the expansion of the town in both business and residential areas. The present building is calculated to serve the interests of the bank for many years to come and has been constructed on the most elaborate lines, so as to conform with all present and future requirements. An integral part of the community the building will carry with it the memories of the past, which have been associated with the company's activities. The warmest congratulations go to the directors on their decision to build, the archictects Messrs Swan, Lawrence and Swan of Wellington, and the builders, Messrs Boon, Sullivan and.Luke of Whakatane.