Intense gusts hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled officials to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing homes mainly in the southern region, though officials report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted as a result of the winds, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Severe Weather
The wild winds on Thursday come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to alter various scheduled activities, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
