WELLINGTON: Powerful winds reaching speeds of up to 155 km/h (96 mph) have torn through New Zealand, leaving around 90,000 homes without power and causing widespread disruption across the country.

The severe weather has prompted authorities to issue rare red wind warnings—the highest alert level—for regions including Canterbury and Wellington, though these were lifted later on Thursday as conditions began to ease.

The winds, which have swept across the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, have caused extensive damage. Roofs have been ripped from homes, trees and power lines toppled, and debris scattered across roads.

Tragically, a man in Wellington was killed after being struck by a falling tree branch while walking on a popular city trail. In another dramatic incident captured on dashcam video, a woman was blown into oncoming traffic by a strong gust but appeared to survive.

Authorities have urged residents to stay indoors and avoid travel, warning of further power and communication outages. Electricity providers say power is being gradually restored, though much of the South Island remains affected.

The storm has forced the cancellation of more than 100 flights, with major disruptions at Wellington Airport. Several roads and public facilities, including libraries, have also been closed due to safety concerns.

In Canterbury, officials declared a state of emergency to bolster disaster response efforts. Rising water levels in the Waimakariri River have sparked fears of flooding, and residents have been told to prepare for possible evacuations.

The wild weather coincides with a nationwide “mega strike” involving teachers, doctors, and other public sector workers demanding better pay and conditions. Many outdoor rallies have been moved indoors or canceled due to the dangerous conditions.

Across the Tasman Sea, similar gusts are battering parts of Australia, where authorities have issued fire bans amid soaring temperatures and bushfire concerns.