Severe gusts hitting speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 households lacking electricity and forced agencies to halt more than 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the whole southern region and southern parts of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
New Zealand authorities have issued infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing households predominantly in the South Island, while authorities say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in some places structures have suffered roof damage, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
Within the capital, a individual was fatally injured after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel to and from the urban area have been suspended as a result of the weather, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Weather
The wild winds on today coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to alter some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, causing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have issued fire bans for fear of bushfires.
