Severe winds hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households without power and led agencies to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
The winds are influencing the entire southern region and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have issued rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in key areas such as these major districts.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
This outage is primarily influencing residences mostly in the southern region, although authorities say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a intensive burst, in a event that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted because of the weather, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action During Severe Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
