Powerful Gales Cause Tens of Thousands Without Power in the Island Nation
Severe winds reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced authorities to halt more than 100 flights, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the complete South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
The power cut is primarily influencing households mostly in the South Island, although authorities say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a person was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been halted as a result of the weather, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has forced them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting Australia, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
