Powerful gusts reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties without power and compelled agencies to call off over 100 aircraft departures, according to local media.
These gusts are influencing the entire southern region and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing these major districts.
Locals have been urged to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for more electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
This outage seems to be impacting households mostly in the southern region, although agencies state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the metropolis have been suspended due to the weather, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to support recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on this day coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for concern about bushfires.
