Severe winds attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes without power and compelled authorities to call off in excess of 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
These gusts are affecting the whole southern region and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in core zones including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing residences mostly in the South Island, while authorities state that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled due to the weather, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to assist emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Weather
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, causing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
