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Intense winds attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households without power and compelled officials to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.

The gales are impacting the entire South Island and lower areas of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.

Officials in New Zealand have issued rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.

Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for additional utility disruptions.

Broad Impact and Crisis Measures

The power cut appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the South Island, though agencies say that power was being gradually reinstated.

Local media have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.

Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.

Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.

Flights entering and leaving the city have been cancelled because of the winds, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.

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

Work Stoppages Amid Extreme Conditions

These intense gusts on today come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.

But the extreme weather has pressured them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or abandoned.

Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.

Agencies have issued fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.