Severe winds attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled officials to cancel over 100 flights, according to regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the complete southern region and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, although officials report that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a event that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights to and from the urban area have been suspended due to the winds, and certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, bringing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued fire bans for apprehension regarding forest fires.
