Vanuatu

Islands of culture, resilience, and opportunity

Vanuatu is a volcanic archipelago of 83 islands where traditional lifestyles exist side by side with technological progress. Around 110 indigenous languages are still spoken by an average of only 2,000 people per language, making it the country with the highest density of languages per capita in the world.

The vast majority of people living in Vanuatu are Melanesian. It is a predominantly Christian country. Vanuatu culture retains a strong diversity derived from regional variations and an adherence to kastom (traditional practices and lifestyles).

Our work in Vanuatu

VSA has been working in Vanuatu since 1965. Our volunteers help to strengthen economic development within tourism and agriculture, develop rural vocational education, support health initiatives, empower women and youth, and provide infrastructure support in the area of water.

VSA has its main office in Luganville, Sanma Province, and work closely with local organisations and government agencies to support the following areas:

Water infrastructure and engineering

In partnership with the Department of Water Resources and Engineers Without Borders NZ, volunteers are improving water access and management systems across rural communities.

Health services strengthening

Supporting medical teams in Port Vila and Luganville hospitals to enhance capacity and improve health outcomes across clinical and operational functions.

Tourism and economic development

Assisting local enterprises and communities to grow sustainable tourism and agriculture sectors.

Education and youth empowerment

Improving rural vocational training, supporting youth development, and increasing access to skills-based education.

Environmental management and waste reduction

Supporting communities in adopting environmentally sustainable practices for waste management and resource use.

Economic context

Vanuatu's economy is primarily agriculture-based and engages approximately 80 per cent of the population. Copra, kava, and beef make up more than 75 per cent of total agricultural exports, with agriculture accounting for around 20 per cent of GDP.

Development challenges

Vanuatu continues to face challenges associated with its geography, climate, and limited infrastructure. Key issues include:

Access to clean water and basic health services
Vulnerability to climate change and natural disasters
Youth unemployment and limited education opportunities
Rural development gaps and infrastructure strain
Language and communication barriers across islands

VSA’s work supports community resilience, service delivery, and locally led growth across multiple sectors.

Things to consider when living and volunteering in Vanuatu

Language and culture

VSA assignments usually last two years, so local language training is important. We provide basic language training (Bislama) at the start of assignments with follow-ups if necessary, during assignment. Understanding local customs is vital to a successful assignment but be aware these can change from one island to the next. Topics are often not approached directly. Talking about family and local issues is often required before getting down to discussing what you as a volunteer may want.

Housing and living conditions

We ensure volunteers are provided with basic, furnished accommodation with gas facilities for cooking. Some volunteer housing relies on rainwater for water supply so be aware of your water use, especially during dry periods. In Port Vila and Santo, you’ll probably have access to 24-hour power, telephones, town water supply, internet, restaurants, public transport systems, a good variety of shops and a wider community of expatriates. If you are based elsewhere, you may have none of these. The town water supply in both Vila and Santo is treated and safe to drink, although the water is high in calcium, so it is best to boil before drinking.

Dress standards

Vanuatu is a conservative place, and some western-style clothing is not appropriate. Loose-fitting, light, cotton clothing is best for the climate and culturally appropriate. For men, choose long pants, knee-length shorts and short-sleeved shirts. For women, dresses, skirts and t-shirts are commonly worn – sleeveless shirts are also acceptable. Don’t expose skin above the knee though, especially when attending traditional events. Women should wear shorts or a sarong and a t-shirt while swimming in non-resort areas.

Health

Malaria is endemic in most of Vanuatu outside Port Vila and all volunteers must use malarial prophylaxis. Other precautions are still recommended, such as insect repellent and long sleeves / trousers in the evening if outside and a mosquito net if you are staying in malaria areas. Skin infections can develop quickly so have a good supply of plasters, antibiotic cream and antibiotics. There are public hospitals in Port Vila and Luganville as well as private medical facilities with smaller health centres scattered throughout the islands. Health care is basic, and you’ll need to be responsible for managing your own health while on assignment.

Safety

We provide all volunteers with a thorough security briefing and specific local issues are covered during in-country orientation. Like many developing countries, you need to be aware of your surroundings in Vanuatu and make sensible decisions as to your personal security. Walking in Port Vila or Santo during the day is quite safe but take care when walking alone and avoid doing this at night. Theft is common in towns, so be careful with your possessions and ensure housing is locked when empty. Bear in mind also that land ownership is complex, and strangers cannot wander freely through private or empty land without first seeking permission.

Banking and finances

There are several banks in Vanuatu although fewer options exist outside Port Vila. We open a local bank account for all volunteers once you arrive in Vanuatu and monthly living allowances are paid into this. Debit cards are available for volunteers with ANZ or Westpac accounts in Port Vila or Luganville. Local currency is the Vatu. Visit XE.com for current exchange rates.

Cell phones and email

Vanuatu has two cellular providers, Telecom Vanuatu Ltd and Digicel. Coverage is generally good within urban areas but fades quickly as you move to rural areas. International connections can be unreliable, especially during the day when sent text messages can fail or take hours to get through. Economy rates for calls and texts (both international and domestic) are available so check these before deciding on a provider.

Internet connection is very limited compared to New Zealand in terms of speed. There are some public internet cafes in Port Vila and in Santo. Some organisations will have internet at work, but don’t assume this for more rural areas. In some cases, it might be possible, at your own cost, to get internet connected at home.

Open positions

Let’s work together to create meaningful change.

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Want to become a partner?

We work in partnership with government agencies, NGOs, and community groups to share skills, strengthen systems, and support locally driven development.

If your organisation could benefit from volunteer expertise in areas like education, health, agriculture, governance, or climate resilience—we’d love to hear from you.