Severe winds hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced officials to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
The winds are impacting the whole southern region and lower areas of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in key areas such as these major districts.
Residents have been encouraged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for further utility disruptions.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut is primarily influencing homes mostly in the South Island, though officials say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights to and from the urban area have been suspended due to the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on this day occur while numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to alter various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have declared fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
