Severe gusts attaining speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and led agencies to halt over 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Response
The power cut is primarily influencing residences mostly in the southern region, though authorities say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was pushed toward approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled because of the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the intense climate has pressured them to alter various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, ushering in a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for concern about wildfires.
