Severe gales reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and compelled officials to halt more than 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are influencing the whole southern region and southern sections of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing households mostly in the South Island, though officials say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights in and out of the city have been suspended due to the winds, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on today coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to change various scheduled activities, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
