Powerful Gales Leave Numerous Homes Without Power in the Island Nation
Severe gales reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced agencies to call off over 100 flights, based on local media.
These gusts are impacting the entire southern region and lower areas of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing these major districts.
Locals have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
The power cut appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the southern region, though authorities state that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the urban area have been halted because of the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have announced a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has forced them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are impacting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have issued fire bans for concern about bushfires.
