Powerful winds attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties without power and forced officials to cancel over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
These gusts are influencing the entire southern region and southern parts of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Crisis Measures
This outage is primarily influencing residences mainly in the South Island, though authorities say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been suspended due to the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the severe conditions has forced them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
