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Intense gusts hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households without power and compelled officials to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.

The gales are influencing the whole southern region and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.

The nation's agencies have released infrequent high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.

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

Extensive Impact and Emergency Measures

The power cut seems to be impacting households predominantly in the southern region, though agencies report that power was being slowly brought back.

Regional news have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gales.

Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.

Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.

Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been halted due to the winds, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.

Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have announced a emergency situation, to assist recovery activities.

Strike Action Alongside Harsh Weather

The wild winds on today come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.

However the extreme weather has compelled them to change various scheduled activities, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or abandoned.

Comparable winds are affecting Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.

Authorities have issued fire bans for fear of forest fires.