Severe winds attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and compelled officials to call off in excess of 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are impacting the complete South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released uncommon red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions such as these major districts.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Measures
This outage appears to be affecting households mostly in the southern region, though authorities say that power was being slowly brought back.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been cancelled because of the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on this day coincide with numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the intense climate has pressured them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced fire bans for apprehension regarding bushfires.
