Currency to use in Vanuatu

[FlyboyAl]

I'm taking the Flygirl to Vanuatu mid August for a significant birthday ending on "0".
We just want somewhere "away from it all" where there is little or nothing to do, but weather is warm and friendly. And which does not a day to get to/from!
I've got a bunch of cash which I planned to use so we don't come home to any big bills and I was wondering what is the best currency to use on the island?
I know it has its own currency, but do they take aussie dollars or US dollars, or only their currency?
Would appreciate any feedback from those who have been there recently (my last trip was 30 years ago!)

 

[attood]

There are actually ANZ ATMs you can use in Vila to withdraw their vatu. Some places don't mind the AUD but all seemed to prefer the local currency.
Enjoy the warm weather and duty free shopping!

 

[ColinP]

A lot of tourist places in Port Vila will take $AU but will give an unfavourable exchange rate.
Much better to exchange your Au dollars for Vatu at one of the exchange booths in Port Vila. When I was there last year the best exchange rate was at 'Goodies' in the main street of Port Vila, near the Olympic Hotel. Cnr of Kumul Hwy and Rue Pasteur.

 

[yohy?!]

+1 on Goodies, avoid spending in any other currency than Vatu

 

[Mal]

+1 on Goodies, avoid spending in any other currency than Vatu

+1. Goodies were great.

$AUD is for cruise ship patrons. They don't stick around long enough to realise how much they're being fleeced!

From memory, duty free for most items in Vanuatu is a steal. In particular booze and cigs. Beats Aus DF by a mile!

 

[Timba-Jet]

Exchange once you arrive in Port Villa, do not exchange in Australia unless you don't mind being taken for a ride.