Intense winds attaining speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and forced authorities to halt over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
These gusts are affecting the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and prepare for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Impact and Emergency Measures
The power cut is primarily influencing homes predominantly in the southern region, although officials report that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
Across Wellington, a man was killed after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the city have been suspended due to the winds, while various routes and public facilities are not operating.
At the same time local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on this day come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "mega strike", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
