Powerful gusts reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes lacking electricity and compelled authorities to halt in excess of 100 flights, according to local media.
These gusts are affecting the entire southern region and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the southern region, though officials say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a person was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the urban area have been halted because of the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on today coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the intense climate has forced them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared fire bans for concern about wildfires.
