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When the BNZ opened for business in Hamilton in 1875 the Waikato economy was booming and there was strong competition for settlers' accounts.
The first BNZ branch in the region opened in 1864 in Ngaruawahia, shortly after soldiers from the 4th Waikato Militia Regiment landed at Hamilton. As the town prospered, it became apparent a bank was needed closer to the commercial centre.
The National Bank already had a branch in Hamilton but it closed in 1877 and the Union Bank took over its premises. The first BNZ manager at Hamilton was Robert Law but, after a year, he was replaced by James Hume, who had managed the Ngaruawahia branch. Hume was only 39 when he took over the role and he wielded considerable influence in the district. But he was also a fair man whom, it is said, never abused his power. He lived in spacious quarters above the bank and remained as manager for 20 years.
The site chosen for the BNZ - on the corner of Victoria and Hood Streets - proved a strategic choice. Victoria Street was at the end of the main road from Auckland and travellers arrived on the western side first. After the bank was built, other significant buildings were erected nearby.
The bank was the largest building of its kind and unusual for the time because it was made of brick rather than timber. It cost 3899 pounds, which was a considerable sum and seemed to indicate the confidence the bank had in the town's economic future.
The two-storeyed building was designed by Edward Mahoney, and originally housed a large banking chamber, a manager's office, strong room and private residence. In 1908, a single storey added to the rear extended the banking chamber and provided an office for the accountant. In 1932, a single storey was added between the original building and the neighbouring premises once occupied by the Waikato Argus. The first floor continued to be used as staff accommodation until 1960 when it was converted to offices.
The BNZ left the building in 1986 and it was vacant for some years before it was refurbished in 1994 as a bar and café. For the second time in its history, the old BNZ had a major influence on Hamilton's commercial development. Its restoration signalled the beginning of a multi-million dollar redevelopment at the south end of Victoria Street, which is now the city's restaurant and entertainment district.
Writer: Charlotte Harder
Photographer: Yahn Simons
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