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Severe winds hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties without power and compelled authorities to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.

These gusts are influencing the whole South Island and lower areas of the North Island, per the national weather agency.

The nation's agencies have released infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in core zones such as Wellington and Canterbury.

Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for further power and communication outages.

Broad Damage and Emergency Measures

The power cut appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the South Island, while agencies report that energy was being restored progressively.

Regional news have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been brought down by the winds.

In Wellington, a man was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.

Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.

Aircraft services in and out of the city have been cancelled due to the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.

At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.

Labor Protests During Severe Weather

The wild winds on this day come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.

However the extreme weather has forced them to alter certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.

Comparable winds are affecting Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.

Officials have declared flame prohibitions for concern about wildfires.