Powerful gales attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 properties without power and led authorities to call off over 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
These gusts are influencing the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas such as these major districts.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households mostly in the South Island, although officials say that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on this day coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared fire bans for fear of bushfires.
