Fierce Winds Leave Tens of Thousands Without Power in the Island Nation
Powerful winds attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led officials to call off in excess of 100 air travel services, according to local media.
The gales are impacting the complete southern region and southern sections of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions including these major districts.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting homes mainly in the South Island, though agencies say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a person was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the city have been halted because of the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on this day come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has forced them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are impacting Australia, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for apprehension regarding forest fires.