Intense winds attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and led officials to halt over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the complete southern region and lower areas of the northern region, per the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for additional electricity and network failures.
Broad Impact and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the southern region, though authorities say that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
Across Wellington, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted due to the winds, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to support emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced flame prohibitions for fear of bushfires.
