Intense winds hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled authorities to call off over 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
These gusts are influencing the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Measures
This outage seems to be impacting homes mainly in the South Island, though authorities report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
Across Wellington, a person was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the city have been halted due to the winds, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on this day come as numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the intense climate has compelled them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared fire bans for fear of bushfires.
