Intense gusts hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and compelled authorities to call off more than 100 air travel services, based on domestic outlets.
The gales are influencing the whole southern region and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting residences mainly in the southern region, though officials say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, and trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights in and out of the urban area have been suspended due to the gusts, whereas various routes and public facilities are shut down.
At the same time local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on today coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have issued fire bans for fear of bushfires.
