Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched contests in Germany's eastern state elections.

State premier Manuela Schwesig, of the center-left Social Democrats, is relying on her personal popularity and record on such issues as free child care and improved wages to fend off a challenge from the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which is polling strongly.

AfD candidates Leif-Erik Holm and Enrico Schult are leading a campaign aimed at broadening the party's appeal.

With the governing coalition lacking a clear majority and conservatives struggling in the polls, coalition talks after the vote could be complex and prolonged.