Powerful gales hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and compelled authorities to call off in excess of 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
The gales are impacting the entire southern region and lower areas of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in central regions including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the South Island, while officials state that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the urban area have been halted due to the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Weather
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the intense climate has compelled them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
