Severe gusts reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and led authorities to call off in excess of 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The gales are affecting the entire southern region and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been encouraged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut is primarily influencing homes mostly in the southern region, although authorities say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been cancelled because of the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests During Severe Weather
The wild winds on Thursday come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the extreme weather has forced them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
