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Powerful gusts reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led authorities to cancel over 100 flights, as reported by local media.

The winds are impacting the complete South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.

New Zealand authorities have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions such as these major districts.

People have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional electricity and network failures.

Widespread Impact and Crisis Measures

This outage is primarily influencing residences mostly in the southern region, though agencies state that energy was being gradually reinstated.

Domestic outlets have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.

Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.

Also in the capital, a individual was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.

Aircraft services in and out of the city have been cancelled due to the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.

At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.

Labor Protests Amid Extreme Conditions

These intense gusts on Thursday come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.

However the extreme weather has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.

Like conditions are impacting Australia, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.

Officials have announced burning restrictions for concern about wildfires.