Severe winds reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households experiencing outages and led officials to halt more than 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the whole South Island and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the South Island, although authorities say that power was being slowly brought back.
Local media have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended due to the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Simultaneously local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on today coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the extreme weather has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for concern about wildfires.
