Most unions in New Caledonia have begun a rolling three-day strike in protest against the high cost of living.
The action has begun in the Southern Province and over the next two days it is to be extended to the Northern Province and the Loyalty Islands Province.
Many businesses are closed for the day as are some schools, with a march planned through central Noumea.
The strikers want immediate structural reforms to cut the high cost of living.
The action has also hampered transport, with New Caledonian radio reporting the cancellation of half of today's domestic flights.
The strike has also forced a one-day delay of the Auckland to Noumea service.
