Severe gales reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced authorities to call off more than 100 flights, according to local media.
The gales are impacting the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Emergency Response
The power cut is primarily influencing residences predominantly in the South Island, while authorities say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the city have been suspended as a result of the weather, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on today come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to alter various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, causing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
