Powerful gales attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled authorities to call off in excess of 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are influencing the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in core zones including Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Crisis Measures
This outage appears to be affecting homes mainly in the South Island, while agencies say that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted as a result of the weather, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on today coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to change some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have declared flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
