Severe gales hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled authorities to halt over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the whole South Island and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been urged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Broad Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences mostly in the South Island, though officials report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a person was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a intensive burst, in a incident that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been suspended due to the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to support emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Weather
The wild winds on today come as numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has compelled them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Authorities have declared burning restrictions for concern about wildfires.
