Powerful winds reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and led agencies to halt more than 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
The gales are influencing the complete South Island and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
The power cut seems to be impacting homes mainly in the southern region, although authorities state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been cancelled due to the winds, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time local leaders have announced a emergency situation, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Weather
The wild winds on this day occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
