Powerful winds reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes without power and compelled authorities to halt in excess of 100 flights, according to local media.
The winds are impacting the whole southern region and lower areas of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones such as these major districts.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more utility disruptions.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the South Island, though officials report that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been suspended due to the weather, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Severe Weather
The wild winds on this day come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have declared fire bans for concern about wildfires.
