New Caledonia's mainly Kanak USTKE union has held a one-day general strike over a number of grievances, including a long-running dispute at the Carsud company in Noumea.
The action has reportedly had little impact in Noumea, with some businesses in outlying areas affected.
The union's leader, Gerard Jodar, has questioned why there is a police presence when the unionists demonstrate while no security forces are deployed when state employees take to the streets.
He has also suggested that action will be taken when the junior minister in charge of overseas territories, Yves Jego, visits New Caledonia later this month.
