Powerful winds attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led authorities to cancel more than 100 flights, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are impacting the whole southern region and southern sections of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for more utility disruptions.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Measures
This outage is primarily influencing residences mostly in the South Island, though agencies state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been halted because of the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on this day coincide with tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has pressured them to alter various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, bringing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
