Intense gales reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 properties without power and forced agencies to cancel in excess of 100 aircraft departures, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are impacting the whole South Island and southern sections of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing residences mostly in the southern region, though officials say that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a incident that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted as a result of the weather, while some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Severe Conditions
The wild winds on this day coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has compelled them to modify certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting the neighboring country, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have announced burning restrictions for apprehension regarding bushfires.
