Powerful gales hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties without power and compelled authorities to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas including these major districts.
People have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Measures
This outage is primarily influencing residences mostly in the South Island, although authorities say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been cancelled due to the weather, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
