Severe gales attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled authorities to call off in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
People have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting households predominantly in the South Island, though authorities report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been halted as a result of the weather, whereas certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Weather
The wild winds on today come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have issued fire bans for fear of forest fires.
