Intense winds hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled authorities to cancel over 100 air travel services, based on local media.
These gusts are impacting the complete southern region and lower areas of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in core zones including Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing households predominantly in the South Island, while officials say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a person was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the urban area have been suspended due to the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action During Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on today coincide with tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have announced fire bans for fear of wildfires.
