Strong winds in New Zealand leave tens of thousands without power

Strong winds of up to 155km/h in New Zealand have left around 90,000 homes without power, affecting the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island. Authorities issued rare red wind warnings before lifting them hours later, while a man died after being struck by a tree branch in Wellington. People are urged to stay indoors and avoid travel, with flights cancelled and roads and libraries closed. The power cut is mostly affecting homes in the South Island, with electricity supply being restored progressively. Heavy rain is also expected across the region, with water levels rising rapidly in the Waimakariri River, prompting a state of emergency in Canterbury. Similar gusts are sweeping across Australia, bringing a heatwave to its outback and prompting fire bans.