Severe winds reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and compelled agencies to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
The winds are impacting the entire southern region and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting households predominantly in the southern region, while authorities state that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights entering and leaving the metropolis have been cancelled due to the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Severe Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
