Severe winds hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led authorities to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the whole southern region and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have announced uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been urged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households mainly in the South Island, although authorities say that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a person was killed after being struck by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the gusts, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced fire bans for apprehension regarding bushfires.
