Severe winds attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and led officials to halt more than 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the complete southern region and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones such as these major districts.
Residents have been encouraged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the South Island, though authorities say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been brought down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled due to the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
