Voters have been going to the polls in French Polynesia today in the first round of the election to choose a new 57-member territorial assembly.
French Polynesia's assembly approves 2018 budget Photo: French Polynesia presidency
According to the French High Commission, just under 29 per cent of voters had cast their ballot papers by midday, which is a six per cent lower turn-out than in the last election five years ago.
Six parties, including four new ones, are contesting the election, and each of them needs to win at least 12.5 per cent of the vote to qualify for the second round in two weeks.
There have been no reports of any irregularities, with observers saying there is a festive mood.
Preliminary results are expected shortly after polls close tonight.
In the last election, the Tahoeraa Huiraatira won 38 of the 57 seats, which included 19 seats as a bonus for being the most successful party.
