Severe gales reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties without power and led authorities to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
The winds are impacting the whole southern region and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and get ready for additional electricity and network failures.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households predominantly in the South Island, although officials state that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been suspended due to the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have declared a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on this day occur while many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the intense climate has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared fire bans for fear of forest fires.
