Fierce Gales Leave Tens of Thousands Without Power in the Island Nation
Intense winds hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households lacking electricity and led officials to call off in excess of 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are influencing the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences mainly in the southern region, though agencies state that power was being restored progressively.
Local media have stated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled because of the gusts, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have announced a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has forced them to change some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
