Intense winds reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households without power and forced authorities to call off over 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the whole southern region and southern sections of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have announced uncommon high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Measures
This outage is primarily influencing residences mostly in the South Island, while agencies report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the city have been suspended due to the gusts, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action During Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on this day coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for concern about wildfires.
