Powerful gusts hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 properties experiencing outages and compelled agencies to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
The winds are impacting the complete South Island and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for more utility disruptions.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences mostly in the South Island, although officials report that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being hit by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended due to the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Weather
The powerful gales on today occur while tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting the neighboring country, causing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Officials have announced fire bans for concern about bushfires.
