Severe gusts attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and led authorities to cancel over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
These gusts are impacting the complete southern region and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been encouraged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting homes mostly in the South Island, while agencies state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the urban area have been halted due to the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have declared a emergency situation, to support recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Severe Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, ushering in a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared fire bans for apprehension regarding forest fires.
