Powerful winds hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes lacking electricity and led authorities to cancel more than 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
This outage seems to be impacting households mostly in the South Island, though officials state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the urban area have been halted due to the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have announced a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Alongside Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are affecting the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
