Powerful winds attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced authorities to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the complete South Island and southern parts 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 central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the southern region, while authorities say that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being struck by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the city have been halted because of the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on this day coincide with tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to alter certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
