Just landed - wondering what gives the better rate in Tahiti: ATM withdrawal or airport exchange counter?
I withdrew local currency at the airport only for immediate transport. Then each day I hit a Banque Socredo or Credit Agricole ATM in the city. My mid-market card rates beat the kiosk’s markup significantly. And don’t be tempted by the “charge in USD” option - decline that. For best value in Tahiti, ATM trumps airport exchange.
Grabbed a bit of cash (10,000 XPF) at the Faa’a kiosk just to catch the shuttle. The rate was visibly worse. A few hours later, I used my debit card at an HSBC ATM in downtown Papeete, and got better value - even with bank fees. So yes - small buffer at airport, main funds from city ATMs is the smart move.
I switched between airport exchange and local ATMs last trip. The airport gave me about 20 XPF less per dollar. Then I tried a Credit Agricole ATM near my hotel, and the difference added up fast over multiple withdrawals. For emergencies, use the airport desk, but for actual cash needs, rely on bank ATMs in town.
My go-to move was using the airport exchange counter at Faa’a for enough cash to pay for taxi and round-trip ferry - but the rate was awful. Later I withdrew from a Banque de Tahiti ATM in Papeete and got a much better exchange value. If you’re wondering “best exchange rate in Tahiti,” it’s ATM withdrawals, hands-down - just decline any dynamic conversion.