Powerful winds hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households without power and compelled authorities to halt over 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the whole southern region and southern parts of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mainly in the southern region, although agencies say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the city have been halted because of the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Severe Weather
The powerful gales on this day coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the intense climate has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
