Powerful winds reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled agencies to cancel more than 100 air travel services, based on domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the entire 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 encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and get ready for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the South Island, though authorities report that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted due to the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
However the intense climate has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared fire bans for apprehension regarding forest fires.
