Powerful gales reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 homes without power and led officials to call off over 100 flights, based on local media.
These gusts are impacting the whole southern region and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mostly in the southern region, although authorities say that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended due to the winds, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Harsh Weather
The wild winds on this day come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced fire bans for fear of bushfires.
