Severe winds attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households experiencing outages and forced agencies to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, based on regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the entire southern region and southern sections of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing residences predominantly in the South Island, though authorities state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was killed after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the city have been suspended due to the gusts, whereas certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have announced a state of emergency, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on this day come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have issued fire bans for concern about forest fires.
