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Powerful gusts reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households without power and compelled authorities to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.

These gusts are impacting the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the national weather agency.

New Zealand authorities have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.

Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.

Widespread Destruction and Emergency Response

The power cut is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the South Island, though officials state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.

Local media have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.

Across Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.

Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.

Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended due to the weather, and some roads and libraries are shut down.

Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.

Strike Action During Harsh Conditions

The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.

However the severe conditions has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.

Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.

Agencies have issued fire bans for fear of bushfires.