Powerful winds reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced authorities to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the South Island, though authorities state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled as a result of the weather, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Comparable winds are affecting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
