Mr Mills said this was the fourth tree in the street to have snapped in high winds, adding he was concerned his house was vulnerable if a tree fell outside his property.
Mr McAuliffe called line company Tenix and the council.
In Akatea St, Gonville, a dead pine tree in the front yard of a house was blown into power lines.
Resident Jim Robinson said the pine was one of dozens planted in the front and back of the property about 10 years go.
Most of them had died during the years from some sort of virus, he said.
"Because they are so tall and spindly they are quite dangerous and should be removed," he said.
Police cordoned the street off and Whanganui Fire Service attended with Tenix.
Just after 10am a power feeder went out in Waterworks Rd when trees blew on to lines.
Affected were Kai Iwi, Ahu Ahu Valley, Pararangi, Rangitatau East Rd and Te Tuhi Junction.
Powerco communications advisor Neil Holdom said the power was out for most of the day.
The storm was caused by a cold front from the south-west, according to MetService spokesman Bob McDavitt.
He said the storm front barrelled through Wanganui bringing winds of about 80km/h.
The front moved in from Cook Strait and up the North Island.
"It brought a squally south-west change, but it was fairly short-lived."
By afternoon the sun shone, although a strong breeze remained.
Mr McDavitt said it would still be a bit gusty in Wanganui today. Today's weather forecast for the city is for increasing cloud, rain from the afternoon and strong westerly winds.
Mr McDavitt said strong winds were common as spring moved into summer.
"It's like the two seasons are jostling for dominance," he said.