Powerful gusts attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 homes lacking electricity and led officials to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
These gusts are impacting the entire southern region and southern sections of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for more electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Response
This outage seems to be impacting homes mostly in the southern region, though officials report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been brought down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights in and out of the city have been halted due to the gusts, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a state of emergency, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Extreme Weather
The wild winds on this day occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or called off.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, ushering in a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
