Powerful gusts attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households without power and forced officials to call off in excess of 100 flights, based on domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the complete South Island and southern parts of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households mainly in the southern region, though agencies state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights in and out of the urban area have been cancelled because of the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on today occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has forced them to modify certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, causing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
