Powerful gales hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes without power and led authorities to call off over 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are influencing the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting homes mainly in the South Island, though authorities say that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been suspended as a result of the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to support emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on this day come as numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced fire bans for apprehension regarding forest fires.
