Powerful winds attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes without power and led agencies to call off more than 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are affecting the entire South Island and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Emergency Measures
This outage seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the southern region, although authorities state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a person was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the city have been suspended as a result of the weather, and some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has forced them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Like conditions are impacting Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared fire bans for fear of bushfires.
