Powerful winds attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes lacking electricity and led authorities to cancel over 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
These gusts are affecting the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the South Island, while agencies report that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, while power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel entering and leaving the city have been suspended due to the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have declared a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Amid Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on today coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, causing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
