Powerful gales reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled officials to call off in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
The winds are impacting the complete South Island and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have issued uncommon red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Broad Damage and Crisis Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting residences mostly in the South Island, while officials say that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was swept into moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been halted due to the winds, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared fire bans for concern about bushfires.
