The ATM just swallowed my debit card and didnt return it. This was in Fiji, close to where Im staying. Any idea if local banks can help? Help SOS how to get it back
I had my German Mastercard taken by a Westpac ATM in Lautoka late on a Friday. By Monday, they told me it had already been destroyed for security. I had to cancel and rely on my Monzo backup. Fiji is very cash-reliant in the islands and smaller towns, so losing a card was tough. Best advice: use ATMs during branch hours and always carry both a second card and some cash.
My Wise Visa was taken by an ANZ ATM in Suva. I went to the branch the next morning, and after checking my ID, they returned it within an hour. The staff were used to handling foreign cards. A friend had the same positive experience with BSP in Nadi. If you stick to ATMs inside or next to bank branches, recovery is usually possible in Fiji.
In Fiji, ATMs are mainly operated by ANZ, BSP (Bank South Pacific), and Westpac. If your card is captured, head directly to the branch with your passport. ANZ often allows retrieval, but many banks destroy cards after 24-48 hours. Call the hotline number on the ATM immediately. Fiji is still fairly cash-based outside Suva and Nadi, so always carry some FJD while waiting to confirm if your card can be returned.
At Wailoaloa Beach (near Bamboo Backpackers, Nadi), a BSP ATM kept my card after a network hiccup. I went to BSP Nadi Town with my passport and the exact ATM address. They told me the unit would be opened around 1-2 pm and, if the name matched the captured card, I could collect it. I used my backup at an ANZ Fiji machine by Namaka Market while waiting. If yours just happened, note the ATM ID (sticker on the fascia) and time, then go to that bank’s branch. Weekends/public holidays delay retrieval; if you’re island-hopping to Denarau or Yasawas, consider cancelling.