Severe gusts hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced officials to cancel over 100 aircraft departures, based on local media.
These gusts are influencing the complete southern region and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
The power cut is primarily influencing homes mainly in the southern region, though authorities report that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being hit by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled due to the weather, and various routes and public facilities are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Severe Conditions
The wild winds on today coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has forced them to change some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Authorities have announced fire bans for apprehension regarding wildfires.
