Severe gales attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 households without power and led agencies to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, based on domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the entire South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences mainly in the southern region, while agencies say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled due to the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on this day come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
However the intense climate has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are impacting Australia, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
