Powerful winds reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led agencies to call off over 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are influencing the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting residences mostly in the southern region, although officials report that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been halted as a result of the weather, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on today coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to change various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
