Powerful Gales Leave Tens of Thousands In the Dark in the Island Nation
Intense gusts hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 properties without power and led authorities to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
These gusts are influencing the entire southern region and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued uncommon red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the South Island, though agencies say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the metropolis have been suspended due to the winds, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Weather
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has forced them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
