Campaigning in New Caledonia will end tonight ahead of Sunday's provincial elections.
A weekend ban will then come into force on the sale of alcohol and the movement of firearms.
Photo: RNZ Pacific/ Walter Zweifel
Almost 170,000 voters are on the restricted roll for the election of the three provincial assemblies which will be chosen for a five-year term.
By law all 25 party lists contesting the election alternate male and female candidates to help ensure gender parity.
Out of the three assemblies, a 54-member Congress will be formed which in turn will elect an 11-member government.
Under the collegial system enshrined in the Noumea Accord, the government seats will be shared among the parties in proportion to their strength in Congress.
Preliminary results are expected late on Sunday.
Petanque game along Anse Vata in Noumea Photo: RNZ Walter Zweifel