Severe gales hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 homes without power and forced officials to halt more than 100 air travel services, according to local media.
These gusts are impacting the entire South Island and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
The power cut is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the South Island, though agencies say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been cancelled due to the gusts, while certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have declared a emergency situation, to support recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on today occur while many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have issued fire bans for fear of bushfires.
