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Severe gales attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled authorities to call off over 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.

These gusts are influencing the entire South Island and lower areas of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.

Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.

People have been urged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.

Extensive Damage and Emergency Response

This outage seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the southern region, though agencies report that power was being restored progressively.

Local media have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.

In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.

Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.

Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted because of the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.

Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.

Work Stoppages Amid Extreme Conditions

These intense gusts on Thursday occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.

However the extreme weather has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.

Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.

Officials have issued fire bans for concern about forest fires.