ANZ rebuilds Port Vila presence after earthquake

August 31, 2026 11:21 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

ANZ has opened its new Port Vila branch and head office, replacing premises significantly affected by the December 2024 earthquake and reaffirming the bank’s long-term commitment to Vanuatu.

Acting Governor of the Reserve Bank of Vanuatu Gloria Siri, incoming ANZ Country Head Vanuatu Sucharu Tandon and outgoing Country Head Vanuatu Terence Low addressed guests at the official opening.

Australian High Commissioner Max Willis, Deputy Australian High Commissioner Emily Fisher and representatives from the Australian High Commission also attended.

Low was recognised for leading the business through the period following the earthquake, including the restoration of banking services and the delivery of the new Port Vila branch and head office.

Tandon was also in Port Vila meeting customers, staff, community leaders and other stakeholders ahead of formally taking up his role later this year.

The opening included speeches, a ribbon-cutting ceremony, cake cutting and a building dedication prayer.

The new branch follows the December 2024 earthquake, which caused widespread damage across Port Vila and significantly affected ANZ’s former premises.

Low said the new branch demonstrated ANZ’s intention to continue supporting customers and investing in Vanuatu.

“This new branch is proof that even after disruption and adversity, you can come back stronger, continue to support your customers, and invest confidently in the future,” he said.

“Today’s opening is a visible sign of ANZ’s confidence in Vanuatu and our commitment to be here for the long term. It reflects our belief in this market, our customers and the future of this country.”

Following the earthquake, ANZ used temporary operations, satellite connectivity and alternative service arrangements to restore banking services.

Over the past 18 months, the bank has continued supporting customers while operating from temporary locations and assisting communities with recovery.

Low acknowledged the commitment of ANZ employees during the period.

“Our team showed remarkable resilience, professionalism and care during one of the most difficult periods in Vanuatu’s recent history. They kept showing up for customers when it mattered most, and this new branch stands as a testament to what they achieved together,” he said.

The new branch features an open-plan layout, improved accessibility, enhanced digital banking capability and workplace facilities designed to support staff wellbeing and collaboration.

ANZ said the branch is the first commercial building in the Pacific to feature its new ANZ Pacific Pattern branding, which draws on the Pacific Ocean as a shared connection reflecting the heritage of Pacific nations and communities.

The building also incorporates strengthened structural design, enhanced seismic protection and flexible infrastructure to support future ways of working.

Low said the opening was a milestone for ANZ and the wider community.

“This building is a symbol of resilience, determination and confidence in the future of Vanuatu. Following the earthquake, our team worked tirelessly to restore services, support customers and help communities recover through relief packages, direct customer outreach and a significant donation through the Vanuatu Red Cross. This new branch stands as a lasting reflection of those efforts,” he said.

“ANZ is committed to Vanuatu for the long term, and we are proud to continue supporting customers, businesses, communities and the broader development of this country.”

Low said the new branch also reflected ANZ’s broader Pacific strategy of investing in digital capability alongside face-to-face banking services.

“More than 70 per cent of ANZ customers in Vanuatu are now transacting digitally. This branch brings together the best of both worlds, combining modern digital capability with personal, local banking service,” he said.

ANZ acknowledged the local and regional partners involved in delivering the project, including Vancorp Construction, Kramer Ausenco, Stanley Imports, South Pacific Electrical, Water World Plumbing, Supercool, Top Sigs and The Handyman Services.

ANZ said it would continue to invest in its people, expand digital capability and support economic growth across Vanuatu and the broader Pacific region.