Severe gales reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and forced agencies to call off over 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
These gusts are influencing the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Broad Damage and Emergency Measures
This outage seems to be impacting residences mainly in the South Island, while authorities report that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been brought down by the gusts.
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.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a incident that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the city have been suspended due to the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Severe Conditions
The wild winds on this day occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued fire bans for concern about forest fires.
