Intense gales attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 properties experiencing outages and led officials to call off in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
The winds are influencing the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting households mainly in the southern region, while agencies report that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights in and out of the city have been cancelled because of the weather, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have issued fire bans for fear of wildfires.
