Looking for reliable ATMs in Kiribati that work well with foreign debit/credit cards and dont charge crazy fees. Any recos will be highly appreciated.
Stayed at Mary’s Motel and can confirm: everyone uses the same ANZ ATM, and it’s a flat 7 dollar fee per use. Locals suggested withdrawing just once or twice for your whole stay to save on repeated fees. Also, bring a backup card just in case, and don’t leave it until Sunday since the main bank branch closes and the ATM might not get refilled.
Don’t expect to find ATMs everywhere across the islands-outside Tarawa, you may not see any machines at all. ANZ in Bairiki worked perfectly with my Wise card, but always check your notes at the counter as machines do occasionally run out of cash, especially after holidays. The A$1,000 per withdrawal limit covered my travel spend for a week at a time.
If you’re traveling to South Tarawa, just remember: ANZ is your only ATM option. Machines are usually found at the main bank branch and the airport, and the A$7 fee is no joke, especially on a backpacker budget. My Mastercard and Visa both got accepted, but there’s sometimes a line on Fridays or weekends, so get your cash sorted when things are quiet.
Kiribati is super straightforward for ATMs-ANZ is the only bank in town and they charge A$7 per withdrawal with a max of A$1,000 per transaction. I used the Betio branch ATM with my German debit and it worked just fine. The $7 fee can add up quick if you make lots of small withdrawals, so best to take the max each time.