Severe gales reaching speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes lacking electricity and compelled officials to cancel more than 100 flights, based on regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the entire southern region and lower areas of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting residences mostly in the southern region, though authorities report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a event that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Flights in and out of the city have been suspended as a result of the weather, whereas certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on today occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the intense climate has forced them to modify certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping the neighboring country, bringing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
