RW oppose cheque abolition

• Published date: 04 February 2021
• Publication title: Te Puke Times

The response was overwhelmingly opposed to the move.

“The response was the highest we’ve ever had for a survey in three years, so, it’s clearly an issue for rural communities,” says RWNZ policy manager Angela McLeod.

According to the survey, the main use of cheques was paying monthly bills, purchasing farm supplies, and paying tax.

More than 70 per cent of respondents voiced concern over the phasing out of cheques and 42.5 per cent of respondents said they still wrote out cheques for purchases and expenses.

Of those who did use cheques, 75.2 per cent said they posted them to make their payments.

“The goal is not to create a permanent stay of cheques, however, to create a viable option for those who do not yet have the connectivity options,” says RWNZ board member and social issues portfolio convener Sharron Davie-Martin.

“Rural communities don’t have the technology or access to consistent...