Severe gales attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and led authorities to call off more than 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the entire South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for additional electricity and network failures.
Broad Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting residences mostly in the southern region, though officials say that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have stated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been brought down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been cancelled as a result of the gusts, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
Simultaneously local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on this day occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the intense climate has pressured them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
