Powerful winds hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced agencies to cancel over 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the whole South Island and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the southern region, though authorities report that power was being restored progressively.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the weather, and certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have issued a crisis declaration, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on today come as numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has compelled them to change various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
