Powerful gusts attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 homes without power and led agencies to call off more than 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the complete southern region and lower areas of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have issued uncommon high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Response
This outage appears to be affecting homes mostly in the southern region, while officials state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a man was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights in and out of the city have been halted because of the winds, whereas various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Weather
The wild winds on this day occur while many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been called a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the intense climate has compelled them to change some of their plans, with several external protests moved indoors or cancelled.
Like conditions are impacting Australia, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
