Severe winds hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 homes lacking electricity and led agencies to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the entire southern region and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced uncommon high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been urged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences predominantly in the southern region, although agencies report that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the city have been suspended as a result of the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on this day come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the intense climate has compelled them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for fear of bushfires.
