Severe winds hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced officials to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are affecting the entire southern region and southern sections of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have issued infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas including these major districts.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
This outage is primarily influencing households mostly in the South Island, though authorities say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been halted as a result of the weather, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
