I'm wondering if the push for ping is because of ALL the international accounts.  Maybe it's cheaper for them to use ping as they may not have an NZ bank account.  This site is definitely not for the mum and dad NZ sellers anymore. But I totally agree that this and all the changes have ruined TradeMe.   With regards to "safety" re sellers, TradeMe have verified where people live, therefore if there were any problems with sellers, they have those details which would make it easier to solve any problems.  I only have my auctions available to "authenticated people only" as a safeguard.

Thank you flossy63 :)  

Query, where is the comment from jpicard that you both seem to be referring to?

honornz247, some great questions you have there. I don't think they've thought this through completely and/or your questions didn't come up at the time this was in the planning.  Pity an official TradeMe person doesn't reply, someone other than Callum who comes across as the spokesperson for them, even though he says he isn't.  

Is what TradeMe doing by removing bank transfers - legal?  They are removing a valid and legal way for people to go about buying and selling goods.  Ping transfers, so why can't buyers? Sometimes, you get your money quicker by bank transfer (and yes, sellers who are aware, make sure the money stays in the account before sending any item).  This sounds like TradeMe saying there is a problem, people react, here is a solution.  All they are doing is creating a middle man to make money. This used to be a great site to buy and sell second hand goods - you know, reduce and recycle, one mans junk,...