UPDATED 5.41pm Staff at some Westpac Bank branches are in shock after being told they're facing job cuts.

The bank is planning to close 19 branches across the country, mostly in rural areas and small town communities.

Almost a hundred jobs could be affected. 72 would go altogether and only 20 redeployments are on offer.

First Union spokeswoman Tali Williams said staff were told at meetings last night.

"They're understandably devastated, in shock, about what this will mean for them and their livelihoods, and those in their communities.

Williams said many communities will be put out if the closures go ahead.

"The next branch along is often about an hour away and that's going to be a problem, not just for staff but for customers too."

A Westpac spokesperson said they are continually reviewing how to best meet their customers' evolving needs.

They say online transactions have increased by 61 per cent over the last five years, and logins via mobile devices went up 33 per cent.

Staff have been asked for feedback over the proposals.

Branches that will close are:

• Kamo, Whangarei
• Broadway Avenue, Palmerston North
• Bishopdale, Christchurch
• Cherrywood, Tauranga
• Gardens, Dunedin
• Waikanae
• Carterton
• Raglan
• Ranfurly
• Te Aroha
• Fendalton Mall Christchurch
• Putaruru
• Whangamata
• Takaka
• Stoke
• Wainuiomata
• Te Anau
• Fairlie
• Otorohanga