Severe gales attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced officials to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the entire southern region and lower areas of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Crisis Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences mostly in the southern region, although officials say that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled due to the weather, and certain highways and community centers are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action During Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on today coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
