Severe gales hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled officials to call off in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in central regions such as these major districts.
People have been urged to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Emergency Response
The power cut appears to be affecting households mainly in the South Island, while authorities report that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights entering and leaving the metropolis have been cancelled as a result of the winds, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have declared a emergency situation, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on this day come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced fire bans for fear of forest fires.
