Severe gales hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led authorities to cancel more than 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the complete southern region and southern parts of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mainly in the southern region, although agencies report that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended due to the weather, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Extreme Weather
These intense gusts on this day coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to change various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
