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Powerful gusts hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and compelled agencies to cancel more than 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.

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

Officials in New Zealand have announced rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones such as Wellington and Canterbury.

Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for further utility disruptions.

Broad Damage and Crisis Measures

The electricity loss is primarily influencing homes mostly in the southern region, while authorities report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.

Regional news have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.

Across Wellington, a man was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.

Additionally in the city, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.

Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled due to the weather, and some roads and libraries are not operating.

Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.

Strike Action Amid Harsh Weather

The wild winds on today coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.

But the intense climate has compelled them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.

Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.

Officials have issued flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.