Ballantynes Department Store
Cashel Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand
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Cashel Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand
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Absolutely terrible Santa photos. Photos taken from such a distance that mainly it is advertising Ballantynes. Wanted ‘deluxe’ Santa photos for potentially our oldest’s last Christmas but got the worst set of photos we have ever had. So disappointed. Also, what is the point of making an appointment? We arrived at the specified time only to have to queue up and people taken in the order of the queue rather than the specified time. With an anxious dog who isn’t great with others, I imagined an appointment would mean we didn’t have to queue for 30 minutes and be taken well after our appointment slot. Such a disappointing waste of money. Have rebooked for another establishment that has been way better in the past. A refund of our waste of money would be appreciated. Added - Notice you respond to positive reviews but ignore not so favourable ones. Obviously an indicator of your service. Please contact me to let me know who to send my bank account details to for a refund for the shocking experience we had at your store.
Many years ago, I visited the Toys Department at Ballantynes Christchurch with my wife and our 7 year old daughter to shop for a toy. During our visit, I noticed that we were being followed from aisle to aisle by a European saleswoman. When my daughter reached out to pick up a toy, the woman said, “Only touch it if you’re going to buy it,” which was unnecessary and made us feel uncomfortable. When I went to pay for our purchases, I noticed a clear difference in how she treated customers. She was smiling and joking with the European customer in front of me, but when it was my turn, her expression changed completely and she became cold and expressionless while completing my purchase. Afterward, I went to the customer service desk and made a complaint, explaining that I felt racially profiled by the saleswoman. The staff member at the service desk apologised to us at the time. I want to share this experience because it genuinely did happen, and I still ruminate about it from time to time whenever I think about Ballantynes. It was a hurtful moment for me and my family, and it has stayed with me over the years.
The store is exceptionally well-appointed, offering an impressive selection of premium brands and a meticulously curated layout that reflects genuine attention to detail. However, the customer experience did not meet the same standard. During my 45-minute visit, the staff appeared more focused on maintaining displays than engaging with customers. Although it was clear they were aware of my presence and observed from a distance, no one approached to offer assistance. This created a somewhat unwelcoming and impersonal atmosphere that detracted from an otherwise beautifully presented retail space.
Second time I have been in to purchase a frank green dog collar and both times the service has been amazing. The ladies upstairs are the most amazing, helpful people and are more than happy to put a personal touch on not only my purchase, but other customers too.
Yesterday I went to the Swarovski counter and purchased some earrings. I didn’t catch the staff members name but she appeared to be the manager. She provided the most excellent customer experience for myself and my friend. She was just as excited about the earrings I purchased as I was. She was super helpful and lovely to deal with. Loved her energy! Please pass on my thanks as customer service like hers is hard to find! 🙏🥰