Powerful Winds Cause Tens of Thousands Without Power in the Island Nation
Severe gusts attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households without power and compelled agencies to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
People have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences mainly in the South Island, while agencies say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled because of the winds, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Severe Weather
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Authorities have announced flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
