Powerful gales reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled agencies to halt more than 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The gales are influencing the whole South Island and lower areas of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been urged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Measures
This outage is primarily influencing households predominantly in the southern region, though authorities report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a incident that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel to and from the metropolis have been cancelled as a result of the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on this day coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Like conditions are affecting Australia, bringing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
