Fierce Gales Cause Numerous Homes Without Power in the Island Nation
Powerful gusts reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led officials to call off in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
The winds are affecting the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting households mostly in the South Island, though officials state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a person was killed after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been suspended due to the weather, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on this day come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced fire bans for fear of wildfires.
