Severe winds reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households without power and forced authorities to cancel more than 100 air travel services, according to regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the whole South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes mainly in the South Island, although officials state that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended as a result of the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to support recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, ushering in a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared burning restrictions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
