Fierce Winds Cause Tens of Thousands Without Power in the Island Nation
Intense gales hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties without power and forced agencies to halt over 100 flights, based on domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the complete South Island and southern parts of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the South Island, although authorities report that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been halted due to the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on today occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the intense climate has pressured them to change some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have issued fire bans for fear of forest fires.
