Powerful gales hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled agencies to call off in excess of 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are influencing the entire southern region and southern parts of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
This outage is primarily influencing residences predominantly in the southern region, though authorities report that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended because of the winds, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Severe Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the intense climate has pressured them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are impacting Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
