Powerful Gales Leave Tens of Thousands Without Power in New Zealand
Intense gusts hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced authorities to call off more than 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
The winds are impacting the complete South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, while officials say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have indicated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended because of the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on this day occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are impacting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
