Intense gusts hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties without power and led officials to call off in excess of 100 flights, according to local media.
These gusts are affecting the complete South Island and southern sections of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Emergency Response
The power cut seems to be impacting households mainly in the South Island, although agencies report that power was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was pushed toward moving cars on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been suspended due to the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have declared a emergency situation, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Conditions
The powerful gales on today come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has forced them to modify some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced flame prohibitions for fear of wildfires.
