Powerful winds attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties without power and led authorities to call off over 100 flights, based on regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the entire southern region and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Response
This outage is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the southern region, while agencies say that power was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was killed after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended due to the winds, and certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Like conditions are affecting Australia, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
