Westpac today encouraged customers impacted by Cyclone Rene to contact their local branch to discuss ways the bank can support them.

"Our thoughts are with everybody affected by this disaster. Westpac understands how natural disasters like this can affect our customers and local communities. We know our customers' financial circumstances will be affected and we encourage customers that need assistance to contact their local Westpac branch or relationship manager as soon as possible to discuss what's the best way we can support them," said Ashleigh Matheson, General Manager, Westpac Tonga.

"We want our customers to know that we are there for them and during difficult times, we'll listen to their needs and work out a solution that is best for them and the bank," said Mr Matheson.

All Westpac branches in Tonga are open for business today. Westpac's ATMs and EFTPoS network are fully operational. Westpsc, 18/02/10.