Intense winds attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 properties lacking electricity and forced agencies to call off over 100 air travel services, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the complete South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for additional power and communication outages.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
This outage is primarily influencing homes mostly in the South Island, although agencies say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a event that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been cancelled as a result of the winds, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Harsh Conditions
These intense gusts on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the severe conditions has forced them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have declared burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
