Powerful gusts reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households lacking electricity and compelled authorities to cancel over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
These gusts are affecting the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting households mainly in the South Island, while authorities report that power was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been halted because of the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have announced a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to alter various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting the neighboring country, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced fire bans for fear of wildfires.
