Intense winds attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 properties without power and compelled officials to cancel over 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the complete southern region and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing households mostly in the southern region, though authorities say that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have stated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was swept into moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been cancelled as a result of the weather, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Amid Extreme Weather
The wild winds on Thursday occur while many of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have issued fire bans for apprehension regarding bushfires.
