Powerful gales hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled officials to cancel over 100 aircraft departures, based on domestic outlets.
These gusts are impacting the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Measures
This outage appears to be affecting homes mainly in the southern region, although agencies say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been suspended because of the weather, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have declared a emergency situation, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, causing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
