Two opinion polls published by media outlets in New Caledonia show that a majority is against independence from France.
Kanak and French flags on Ouvea island. Photo: AFP
The surveys were carried out by the agencies Kantar TNS and I-Scope, just over six months before the territory's referendum on independence.
The first poll found that 58 percent were firmly against independence while 12 percent were for.
With 15 percent of respondents undecided and 12 percent declining to answer, the pollsters suggest between 66 and 73 percent oppose independence.
The I-Scope poll, which was commissioned by the Caledonia TV station, found 60 percent were against independence and 23 for, with the rest still undecided.
The polls show that only in Kanak settlements pro-independence supporters outnumber opponents.
They also show that the percentage of people opposed to independence increases with age.
French president Emmanuel Macron today started a three-day visit to New Caledonia - six months before the vote on independence.
