The Republic of Vanuatu has long been regarded as the most vulnerable country in the world due to its range of natural disasters and the underlying societal vulnerabilities. In March 2015, Tropical Cyclone Pam made landfall in Vanuatu, the first category 5 cyclone for the country. The eye of TC Pam went directly over the island of Tanna stripping off all the green vegetation and destroying most of the houses, livestock and crops. Given that Vanuatu is highly prone to cyclones and with the potential increase in the intensity of extreme events due to climate change, adaptation responses need to be developed that provide culturally relevant options especially in the more remote areas. On the island of Tanna, indigenous communities from twelve remote tribes have come together to pursue adaptation and development outcomes, which are based on traditional community values and governance systems. The tribes are now engaged in a collaborative project with development partners and the Tafea Provincial Government on cyclone-proof community structures in order to provide long-term adaptation options. While the partners are delivering the much needed infrastructure, the tribes’ approach is contributing to the re-arrangements of the governance system using traditional values and practices to promote democratic ideals (accountability, transparency, rule of law, common interests) and human rights principles for the inclusion of all groups (women, youth, people with disabilities) in decision-making. This aims to foster better dialogue around climate injustices and removal of barriers that hinder people from enjoying their rights of accessing opportunities.