Powerful gales hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 households without power and led agencies to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, based on domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the complete South Island and lower areas of the northern region, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and get ready for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Measures
This outage appears to be affecting households mainly in the southern region, although officials report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Domestic outlets have indicated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a individual was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel to and from the city have been cancelled due to the gusts, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to support emergency management operations.
Work Stoppages Alongside Severe Weather
The powerful gales on today occur while numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has pressured them to alter various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have issued burning restrictions for apprehension regarding wildfires.
