Powerful winds hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and forced officials to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The winds are affecting the complete southern region and southern sections of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Measures
This outage seems to be impacting residences mostly in the South Island, although authorities report that power was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been suspended as a result of the gusts, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on today coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for concern about wildfires.
