Powerful gales reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced authorities to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are impacting the whole southern region and southern sections of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
The power cut is primarily influencing residences mainly in the southern region, though officials state that power was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been halted due to the winds, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
