Powerful gales reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled officials to halt more than 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
The gales are influencing the complete South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes mainly in the South Island, although officials report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have stated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel entering and leaving the city have been suspended as a result of the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have announced a emergency situation, to assist recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on today occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
