Severe winds hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled authorities to call off in excess of 100 flights, according to domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut is primarily influencing homes mostly in the southern region, although agencies say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been halted as a result of the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Severe Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to change some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
