The Bank of South Pacific Cook Islands held the reopening of their Rarotonga branch on Wednesday.

The bank’s main branch for the first time in over 20 years underwent significant refurbishment.

BSP Cook Islands country head David Street said after many years of planning and several challenges along the way “we are proud of the results and are confident the community will enjoy the fresh new look and feel”.

“We have changed the layout to provide a better customer experience. Customers will be welcomed on arrival at the greeter’s desk located at the front door – the greeter will also attend to any quick or simple enquires,” Street said.

There are more customer services counters located at the front of the branch, with a lounge waiting area, and an internet banking kiosk for customer convenience and to promote digital solutions.

Tellers are now located toward the back with two business express deposit counters for businesses to drop off their banking and go, “no waiting in queues”.

“We look forward to welcoming all our customers and business partners into the new branch,” Street said.

The launch began with a short prayer service conducted by Pastor Tere Marsters, who also blessed the new premises.

Street said: “As part of the celebration we thanked our partners at John Short Construction for the installation and making special mention to Naveen Kant (John Short Construction) who farewells the Cook Islands after 18 years, in that time Naveen has completed many projects for the bank.”

“We also farewelled our own Tutu Inamata (Business Manager) who is leaving BSP after 5.5 years of dedicated service, we thanked him for his efforts and the friendship we have enjoyed and wish him all the best for his future endeavours.”