Severe winds attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households experiencing outages and compelled officials to cancel over 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and get ready for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Response
The power cut seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the southern region, though agencies state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been cancelled because of the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on this day coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been termed a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has forced them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
