Severe winds attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led officials to cancel over 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the complete southern region and southern sections of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Broad Impact and Emergency Response
The power cut seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the southern region, while agencies say that power was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was swept into moving cars on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been cancelled due to the winds, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests During Severe Weather
The powerful gales on today come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the extreme weather has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
