IG, sorry for the red tape (seems that is the only product a government can really produce!). I gather that you have dual citizenship?
Your article actually put a lot of questions in my mind. I think most of the people here at JU (with a few exceptions in Australia perhaps), know where you live and a very brief history of the Area (centering around WWII battles), but are completely clueless about the politics of Vanuatu and New Caledonia.
SO the short question is, why cant you use your Vanuatu Passport?
But the longer question is, and should you chose to accept this assignment, this blog will self destruct in 30 seconds....
Wait! Sorry, that the wrong movie.
Any way, the longer question is how are things structured down there as far as moving from Island to Island on both travel and residency? I would really enjoy reading more about the area, and how things work. I know that is a tall request, so I leave it up to you.
Best of luck with the bureaucrats!