Powerful winds attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 homes without power and forced authorities to halt in excess of 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the complete South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences mainly in the South Island, although agencies report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been halted because of the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Severe Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have issued fire bans for fear of forest fires.
