This paper argues that area-based approaches (ABA) to disaster response is key in strengthening people-centered recovery and local resilience. It utilizes four principles to review recovery efforts in Fiji, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu: people-centered responses, adaptive processes, multi-sector collaboration and reflective practice. The research gathered data through a literature review and key informant interviews. Despite finding examples of community leadership and locally tailored social protection schemes, it concludes that significant progress can be made to address common problems such to ensure projects are contextually grounded and are coordinated with other efforts.