Intense gusts hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 households without power and led authorities to call off more than 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are influencing the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households mostly in the southern region, though agencies report that energy was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been halted as a result of the gusts, while certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on today come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
Yet the intense climate has compelled them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared fire bans for concern about wildfires.
