Lonely Planet™ · Thorn Tree Forum · 2020

ATMs?

Country forums / Pacific Islands & Papua New Guinea

Can anyone tell me if there's an ATM in Munda? if so, what bank??? Or is the nearest one in Gizo? The one ther is an ANZ isn't it??? How else can I get money out if I'm in that area?

ANZ and Westpac are the only banks in Solomon Islands with ATMs at present, and Westpac only has one branch (though now 3 ATMs) in Honiara.
ANZ has branches in Gizo and Noro, but not Munda. Gizo definitely has an ATM, and Noro probably does by now, as they even have EFTPOS facilities in Malu'u, North Malaita now. (I haven't been to Western Province for some time, so am not positive)
The only bank in Munda is Bank South Pacific, formerly the National Bank of Solomon Islands, which has not yet installed ATMs anywhere.

1

ok, thanks! So, if I'm living in the Solomons, is it best to set up an account with Bank South Pacific? Otherwise I'll never be able to get any money will I?

2

So far, Bank South Pacific has no ATMs, but they are improving their electronic banking etc. If you are working in Munda, at this stage, they may be your only option, but if you are arriving via Honiara, see ANZ there first and ask them if they have a mobile bank servicing Munda yet.
They have had one travelling along the North Guadalcanal road for a year or so, and recently introduced one to Malaita rural areas that are accessible by road.
Also, there is a road, and regular transport, between Noro and Munda, though I don't know how reliable it is.

3

Who needs money anyway hey???? Will just have to remember to bring my fishing rod and a load of vegie seeds for a garden!

4

Chances are, your employer will need a local account to credit your pay - even back in the 90s, I needed one if I wanted to get paid.

5