Severe gales attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 homes without power and forced officials to halt in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
The winds are influencing the entire southern region and southern parts of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for further power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Emergency Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting homes mostly in the southern region, although authorities say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being struck by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the city have been suspended as a result of the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action During Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday come as numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have declared fire bans for apprehension regarding forest fires.
