Severe gales hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced authorities to cancel over 100 flights, based on regional news sources.
The gales are influencing the whole South Island and lower areas of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting households mostly in the southern region, although officials say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a event that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the urban area have been cancelled because of the winds, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have declared a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Alongside Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on today coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
