Severe gales hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households lacking electricity and led officials to halt over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are influencing the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Response
The power cut is primarily influencing homes mainly in the southern region, while authorities report that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been suspended due to the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Weather
The wild winds on this day occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has compelled them to change some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
