Intense gusts reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 households without power and forced authorities to cancel in excess of 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are influencing the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in core zones including these major districts.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Crisis Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing residences mostly in the South Island, while officials state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was killed after being hit by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a event that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted due to the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Severe Weather
These intense gusts on this day come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has forced them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
