Severe winds hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and compelled officials to halt over 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the complete South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Response
This outage is primarily influencing residences predominantly in the South Island, though officials say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been halted because of the winds, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action Alongside Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has forced them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
