Intense gusts reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 properties without power and compelled officials to call off in excess of 100 aircraft departures, based on regional news sources.
These gusts are influencing the whole southern region and lower areas of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting households mainly in the southern region, although officials report that power was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a street by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been cancelled due to the gusts, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Severe Weather
The wild winds on Thursday come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been called a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
