Intense winds attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused approximately 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced authorities to cancel more than 100 flights, based on regional news sources.
These gusts are influencing the complete South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Response
This outage appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the southern region, while agencies state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in various locations homes have lost their roofs, and power lines and trees have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a person was lost his life after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel entering and leaving the city have been halted because of the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Strike Action Alongside Severe Weather
The wild winds on today coincide with many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has pressured them to change certain arrangements, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
