My experience is the same as Deev8. Opened when I was in the UK (Lloyds), no fees, almost no interest, no transaction fees, no minimum balance & internet banking. When I was there, it was pretty difficult to open a new account - needed utility bills with your name on it to open, plus other ID and proof of regular income. It was a of a circus to get opened - you need ID and a bank account to get utility in your name or other proof of address.

Not sure if some of the NZ banks open accounts in the UK. Might do, but would be at a cost.

Other option is the foreign currency accounts that most of the main banks offer.