Powerful winds reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and forced officials to halt over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for more electricity and network failures.
Broad Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mainly in the South Island, though authorities say that power was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel entering and leaving the city have been cancelled because of the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared flame prohibitions for concern about wildfires.
