Intense winds reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes lacking electricity and led agencies to halt more than 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
These gusts are affecting the complete South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting households mainly in the southern region, while authorities say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended because of the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Severe Weather
The wild winds on this day come as numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
