Powerful winds hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 properties experiencing outages and led authorities to call off over 100 flights, based on domestic outlets.
These gusts are influencing the complete South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in key areas such as these major districts.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
The power cut appears to be affecting households predominantly in the southern region, although agencies state that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a person was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended due to the weather, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Alongside Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
