Powerful winds hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and compelled authorities to cancel over 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
These gusts are impacting the complete southern region and southern parts of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Emergency Response
The power cut seems to be impacting households predominantly in the South Island, although officials say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, and trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
Across Wellington, a person was killed after being hit by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been halted because of the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have declared fire bans for fear of bushfires.
