Trying to figure out if buses and metros in Kiribati take cards or if Ill need small cash. Any recent experiences?
No, you won't be able to use cards. The bus system is entirely cash-based, and there is no metro. You will need to pay the driver or a fare collector directly in local currency. Even in the capital, credit card acceptance is very limited. It's best to have a good stash of small bills for all your transport needs.
Don't even bother with a card for buses in Kiribati. The entire system is cash-based. I was just there last year and everything is cash. The country operates on a cash-based economy, and the public transport system reflects that. You'll need to pay the fare directly to the driver. My advice is to get some Australian dollars from a bank and make sure you have plenty of small bills for all your fares.
You'll be using cash for almost all your public transportation needs. While ANZ Bank has ATMs in South Tarawa, you won't be able to use a card to pay for a bus ride. The buses are all cash-based, and you pay the fare directly to the driver. My advice is to get a bunch of small notes from a bank and keep them handy for your daily travel.
You're definitely going to need cash for public transport here. There is no metro, and the bus system is a very simple, cash-only affair. The buses are basically trucks with benches, and you'll pay the driver directly in Australian dollars. Credit card use is very limited even at major businesses in the capital, South Tarawa, and it's non-existent for buses. So, make sure you have small bills on hand for all your transport needs.