Powerful winds hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced authorities to call off over 100 aircraft departures, based on domestic outlets.
These gusts are influencing the entire southern region and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions including these major districts.
Residents have been encouraged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing residences predominantly in the South Island, although officials report that power was being slowly brought back.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been suspended because of the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Harsh Weather
The wild winds on this day occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have declared fire bans for concern about bushfires.
