Severe winds reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led agencies to call off over 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the whole South Island and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting households mainly in the southern region, though officials say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a road by a intensive burst, in a event that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been halted as a result of the weather, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been called a "significant labor action", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Like conditions are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
