Powerful gusts reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties without power and led authorities to cancel in excess of 100 flights, as reported by local media.
These gusts are impacting the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have issued infrequent red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions including these major districts.
People have been advised to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Measures
This outage is primarily influencing households mostly in the South Island, while agencies report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been cancelled due to the gusts, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Strike Action During Extreme Conditions
The powerful gales on this day occur while many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared burning restrictions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
