Intense winds hitting speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households without power and compelled officials to cancel more than 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
The winds are impacting the whole southern region and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have released rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions such as these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting households mostly in the southern region, though officials say that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted because of the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on this day coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to modify certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
