Intense gales reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 households lacking electricity and compelled agencies to cancel over 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have issued infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further power and communication outages.
Broad Impact and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting households predominantly in the southern region, though agencies say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel to and from the city have been suspended as a result of the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Severe Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has compelled them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
