Powerful winds reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led authorities to halt over 100 flights, based on local media.
The winds are affecting the whole South Island and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Measures
This outage seems to be impacting households mainly in the southern region, though authorities state that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel in and out of the city have been cancelled because of the winds, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have declared a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Weather
The wild winds on today coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to modify some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, causing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
