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Powerful gusts attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced officials to call off over 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.

The gales are affecting the complete South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.

The nation's agencies have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing these major districts.

Residents have been urged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.

Extensive Damage and Crisis Measures

The electricity loss is primarily influencing residences mainly in the southern region, although agencies say that power was being slowly brought back.

Local media have stated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.

In Wellington, a person was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.

Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.

Flights to and from the city have been suspended because of the winds, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.

Meanwhile local leaders have announced a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.

Strike Action Amid Extreme Weather

The powerful gales on today come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.

Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.

Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.

Authorities have announced flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.