Powerful gales hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and led officials to halt over 100 aircraft departures, based on regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been encouraged to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
This outage appears to be affecting households predominantly in the southern region, though authorities state that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended as a result of the weather, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are impacting Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have issued fire bans for fear of forest fires.
