Severe gales attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced authorities to cancel over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are impacting the complete South Island and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting households mostly in the southern region, while officials report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was killed after being hit by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been suspended because of the weather, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action During Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on today occur while many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has forced them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
