Severe winds hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled authorities to halt more than 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
The gales are influencing the complete southern region and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting homes mostly in the South Island, although authorities state that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been halted because of the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Severe Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "mega strike", requesting better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
