Severe gusts hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced agencies to call off over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
These gusts are affecting the complete southern region and lower areas of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions encompassing these major districts.
Locals have been advised to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Measures
This outage appears to be affecting households mainly in the southern region, although authorities report that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a person was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been suspended because of the gusts, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a emergency situation, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Severe Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have announced fire bans for concern about wildfires.
