Severe gusts reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and led agencies to halt more than 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
These gusts are impacting the complete South Island and southern parts of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for further utility disruptions.
Broad Impact and Emergency Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting households mostly in the southern region, while authorities state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been halted as a result of the winds, and certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on this day come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has forced them to change some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.
