Intense gusts attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and compelled authorities to call off more than 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the entire southern region and southern sections of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss is primarily influencing residences predominantly in the southern region, although agencies report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the city have been cancelled as a result of the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the intense climate has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
